What types of plastics are most commonly recycled?

The most commonly recycled types of plastics are PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and HDPE (high-density polyethylene). These materials are favored in recycling processes due to their widespread use and the established recycling systems in place for them.

PET is often used for beverage bottles and food containers, while HDPE is found in products like milk jugs and detergent bottles. Their chemical structures allow them to be effectively processed and remolded into new products, contributing to their popularity in recycling programs. Additionally, the high demand for recycled PET and HDPE makes recycling these plastics economically viable.

In contrast, other types of plastics like PVC, PS, LDPE, PP, ABS, and nylon are not as commonly recycled due to various challenges, including less efficient recycling processes, limited market demand for recycled products, or contamination issues. Thus, the choice highlighting PET and HDPE accurately reflects the reality of plastic recycling practices.