Thursday 9 September 2010 | 01:20

Plastic recycling symbols

Polyethylene terephthalate
Example: fizzy drink bottles and oven-ready meal trays

High-density polyethylene
Example: milk bottles and washing-up liquids

Polyvinyl chloride
Example: food trays, cling film, bottles for mineral water and shampoo

Low density polyethylene
Example: carrier bags and bin liners

Polypropylene
Example: margarine tubs, microwaveable meal trays

Polystyrene
Example: yoghurt pots, foam meat trays, hamburger boxes, egg cartons, vending cups, protective packaging for electronic goods and toys

Plastics not in the above categories
Example: melamine, which is often used in plastic plates and cups