{"id":8780,"date":"2025-04-21T13:47:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-21T20:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/blog\/top-digital-tools-that-help-reduce-plastic-waste-in-your-community\/"},"modified":"2026-09-07T07:59:11","modified_gmt":"2026-09-07T11:59:11","slug":"top-digital-tools-that-help-reduce-plastic-waste-in-your-community","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/blog\/top-digital-tools-that-help-reduce-plastic-waste-in-your-community\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Digital Tools That Help Reduce Plastic Waste in Your Community"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Key Takeaways<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:120}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Managing plastic waste well combines five levers: reducing single-use plastics at the source, efficient collection, public education, advanced recycling, and supportive policy.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Plastic waste moves through collection, sorting, recycling, energy recovery, or landfill, and only a fraction of plastic packaging is\u00a0actually recycled.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The recycling number on a plastic item, 1 through 7, signals what it is made of and how easily it can be recycled, though acceptance varies by local facility.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Digital education and notification tools cut recycling contamination by helping residents sort correctly and stay on top of collection schedules.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Celebrating Earth Month: A Time to Rethink Plastic Waste<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:140}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Each April, Earth Month-and Earth Day on April 22-reminds us of the urgent need to protect our planet and adopt more sustainable practices. One of the biggest environmental challenges we face today? Plastic waste. From oceans to landfills, its impact is everywhere. But with the\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/blog\/the-tools-of-routeware-city\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">right tools<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, education, and technology, we can change that. In\u00a0honor\u00a0of Earth Month,\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0diving into actionable strategies and smart solutions to manage plastic waste more effectively-and how\u00a0Routeware\u00a0can help municipalities and organizations lead the charge toward a cleaner, greener future.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Plastic Waste Management Strategies<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:120}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Managing plastic waste involves several key approaches:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reduction at Source<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Minimizing the production and consumption of single-use plastics to decrease the volume of waste generated.<br \/>\n<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-220,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Efficient Collection Systems<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Implementing\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/self-service-tools\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">organized collection methods<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0to prevent plastics from entering the environment.<br \/>\n<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-220,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Public Education<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/customer-education-outreach\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Raising awareness<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0about the importance of recycling and proper disposal methods.<br \/>\n<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-220,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Advanced Recycling Technologies<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:\u00a0Utilizing\u00a0innovative methods to break down plastics into reusable materials. For instance,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.livescience.com\/chemistry\/scientists-break-down-cheap-plastic-using-the-air-and-turn-it-into-something-far-more-valuable\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">scientists have developed processes<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0to convert common polyester plastics into valuable precursors for new products.\n<p><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Legislation and Policy<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Enforcing regulations that limit plastic production and promote sustainable alternatives.\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/plastic-pollution-treaty-negotiations-united-nations-3c50dd83c6ef0779f44027f02e19daee\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">International efforts<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0are underway to\u00a0establish\u00a0treaties addressing the global plastic crisis.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Routeware\u2019s\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/customer-education-outreach\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Education Tools<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0help municipalities educate residents on proper recycling habits, reducing contamination and increasing recycling efficiency.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How Is Plastic Waste Managed?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:120}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The management of plastic waste\u00a0typically\u00a0involves:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Collection<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Gathering plastic waste from residential, commercial, and industrial sources.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sorting<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Separating plastics based on\u00a0type and recyclability.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Recycling<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Processing sorted plastics into new products. However, challenges exist, as\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wsj.com\/us-news\/climate-environment\/plastic-recycling-waste-trash-tips-0a606230\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">only a fraction<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0of plastic containers and packaging are recycled.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Energy Recovery<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Converting non-recyclable plastics into energy through processes like incineration, though this method has environmental implications.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Landfilling<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Disposing of plastics in landfills, which is the least preferred\u00a0option\u00a0due to long decomposition times and potential environmental harm.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\"> <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Routeware\u2019s\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/self-service-tools\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Notify &amp; Inform<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0platform ensures residents stay up to date on collection schedules and proper disposal methods, reducing waste contamination and missed pickups.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:120}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Waste Management Recycling Plastic Numbers<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:120}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Understanding recycling symbols and numbers on plastic products is vital for proper disposal:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Commonly used for beverage bottles; widely recycled.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Found in milk jugs and detergent bottles; widely recycled.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Used in pipes and some packaging; less commonly recycled.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Found in plastic bags and some wraps; recycling options vary.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">PP (Polypropylene)<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Used in yogurt containers and straws; increasingly accepted for recycling.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">PS (Polystyrene)<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Found in disposable cups and plates; challenging to recycle.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Other<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Includes various plastics like polycarbonate; recycling depends on local facilities.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-220,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Plastic Recycling Numbers\u00a0at a Glance<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:120}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Here is how the seven resin codes compare\u00a0at a glance.\u00a0Curbside\u00a0acceptance always depends on your local program, so treat the last column as a general guide rather than a rule.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-32\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-32\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Plastic<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Common items<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Recyclability<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Collected curbside?<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">PET<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Beverage and water bottles <\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Widely recycled <\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Usually yes <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">HDPE <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Milk jugs, detergent bottles <\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Widely recycled <\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Usually yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">PVC <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Pipes, some packaging<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Rarely recycled <\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Usually no <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">LDPE <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Plastic bags, wraps <\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Limited <\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Often no (store drop-off) <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">PP <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Yogurt tubs, straws <\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Growing acceptance <\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Increasingly yes <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">PS <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Cups, plates, foam <\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Difficult <\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Usually no<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Other <\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Polycarbonate, mixed plastics <\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Varies <\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Check locally <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<p><em><span class=\"TextRun SCXW4121893 BCX0\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW4121893 BCX0\">Note: recyclability and\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"FindHit SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW4121893 BCX0\">cur<\/span><span class=\"FindHit SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW4121893 BCX0\">b<\/span><span class=\"FindHit SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW4121893 BCX0\">s<\/span><span class=\"FindHit SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW4121893 BCX0\">i<\/span><span class=\"FindHit SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW4121893 BCX0\">d<\/span><span class=\"FindHit SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW4121893 BCX0\">e<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW4121893 BCX0\">\u00a0acceptance vary by municipality and facility; check your local recycling guidelines.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP Selected SCXW4121893 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:40,&quot;335559739&quot;:60}\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Routeware\u2019s\u00a0Tools for Enhanced Plastic Waste Management<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:120}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Routeware\u00a0provides innovative solutions to support effective plastic waste management:<\/span><span><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/customer-education-outreach\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Education Tools<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Empower communities with knowledge about recycling best practices and the importance of reducing plastic waste.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/self-service-tools\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Notify &amp; Inform<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Keep residents informed about collection schedules, recycling guidelines, and updates through\u00a0timely\u00a0notifications.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/customer-service\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Customer Portal<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Offer a user-friendly platform for residents to manage waste services, access information, and schedule pickups, enhancing engagement and compliance.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/self-service-tools\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Calendars and Schedules<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Provide digital calendars to remind residents of collection days, reducing missed pickups and improving overall efficiency.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/solutions\/customer-operations\/self-service-tools\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Service Requests<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Enable residents to request special services (such as bulky waste, yard waste, or cart replacement), report issues, and provide feedback, fostering a collaborative approach to waste management.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:-260,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:90}\"> <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By integrating these tools, municipalities and waste management organizations can streamline operations, increase recycling rates, and promote sustainable practices within their communities.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Want to talk to us? Book your\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/get-started\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">free, 30-minute consultation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0today.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"3\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Common Recycling Myths That Drive Contamination<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A lot of plastic ends up in the wrong place because of a few widespread misunderstandings. Clearing these up with residents is one of the most effective ways to cut contamination.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Myth 1: The number inside the triangle means the item is recyclable.<\/span><\/b><span><br \/>\n<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reality: it does not. The number only\u00a0identifies\u00a0the resin the item is made from, 1 through 7, not whether your local program will take it. A yogurt tub stamped 5 and a bottle stamped 1 can have completely different fates depending on your city. Always check local guidelines, not the number.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Myth 2: Plastic bags and film belong in the\u00a0curbside\u00a0bin.<\/span><\/b><span><br \/>\n<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reality: they are one of the worst\u00a0curbside\u00a0contaminants. Bags and film wrap around the spinning equipment at sorting facilities and force line shutdowns to cut them out. Keep them out of the cart and return clean bags and film to a store drop-off point instead.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Myth 3: When in doubt, throw it in recycling.<\/span><\/b><span><br \/>\n<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reality: this is\u00a0wishcycling, and it does more harm than good. A hopeful guess puts non-recyclable items into the stream, and that contamination can drag an otherwise good batch to landfill. When in doubt, leave it out, or look it up.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Myth 4: Once it is collected, all plastic gets recycled.<\/span><\/b><span><br \/>\n<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reality: only a fraction of plastic packaging is\u00a0actually recycled. Collection is just the first step, and a lot is lost to contamination, low-value resins, or the simple fact that no local market exists for it. That is why reducing use and sorting correctly matter as much as putting the bin out.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This is where clear, always-current guidance pays off. When cities give residents digital education and a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/blog\/resident-engagement-platform-waste-recycling\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0resident engagement platform<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0with a what-goes-where lookup, contamination falls because people get the right answer at the\u00a0moment\u00a0they are deciding which bin to use.\u00a0The\u00a0Nashville\u00a0metropolitan\u00a0area, for example, cut its recycling contamination rate from 46% to 28.6% in a single year after leaning on digital education. Pairing that resident-facing education with strong<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/blog\/municipal-waste-collection-software-for-reliable-service\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0municipal collection<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0is how communities turn cleaner sorting into real recycling gains, and it is part of where<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/routeware.com\/blog\/waste-management-technology-the-trends-shaping-2027-and-beyond\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0waste technology is heading<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\"><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Effective plastic waste management is crucial for environmental sustainability and public health.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":5304,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-8780","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","resourcetype-blog","aud-government","aud-hauler","loc-north-america","loc-united-kingdom","sol-customer-education-outreach","sol-customer-service","sol-self-service-tools","themes-sustainability"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8780","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8780"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8780\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13646,"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8780\/revisions\/13646"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5304"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/routeware.com\/en_gb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8780"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}