Products from recycled plastic

Types of products from recycled plastic

In recent years, products from recycled plastic have become a very important part of the global economy. On the one hand, they help to solve the problem of waste plastic; on the other hand, they also meet the increasing demand for sustainable development.

According to statistics, in 2020 alone, more than 400 million tons of new plastic were produced worldwide. At the same time, the global plastic recycling market is expected to reach US$53.2 billion by 2025.

Products made from recycled plastic can be found in every corner of our lives.

• Clothing and accessories: Many brands have started to use ocean plastic and other recycled materials to make their products, such as shoes, bags, hats, etc. For example, the global sportswear giant Nike has launched a series of products that use recycled plastic bottles. Also, some outdoor gear brands are producing products like hiking backpacks that contain recycled ocean plastic.
• Construction materials: Plastic lumber is a typical construction material made from recycled plastic. It can be used in many places, such as parks, floors, decks, etc. Plastic lumber has many advantages, such as no corrosion, no decay, no splinters, and low maintenance costs. Besides, some tiles and bricks are made of recycled plastic, which can be used to pave roads or as raw materials for building blocks.
• Housewares: Many household items, such as kitchenware, furniture, and decor, are also made from recycled plastic. For example, some brands have launched dinner sets, cutting boards, and storage boxes made from recycled ocean plastic. Besides, furniture brands are also exploring the use of recycled plastic. For instance, some outdoor patio furniture collections feature pieces made from 100% recycled plastic.
• Packaging: Many brands have started to use ocean plastic and other recycled materials to make their products, such as shoes, bags, hats, etc.

To sum up, products made from recycled plastic are growing in number and variety, which gives rise to a sustainable economy.

Specifications and maintenance of products from recycled plastics

Products made from recycled plastic are of great quality. For the many benefits they offer end users, such products have great specifications that make them ideal for use.

• Eco-friendly

  Products from recycled plastics are typically eco-friendly. They help to cut down on plastic waste. In turn, this helps to reduce the harmful impact on the planet.

• Durability

  Products from recycled plastics are very durable. They can withstand all kinds of pressure and harsh weather conditions. Whether exposed to the sun, rain or snow, recycled plastic products can last for many years. Some even last up to decades. Recycling plastic also makes these products ideal for regular use. People do not need to replace them often.

• Pavement blocks

  Some recycled plastic products, like plastic asphalt, can serve as pavement blocks for roads. They make very strong road surfaces. Plus, they do not break or change easily. This makes asphalt from recycled plastic great for busy roads that have a lot of traffic.

• Ease of Maintenance

  Products made from recycled plastic are easy to care for. For instance, most of them only need regular cleaning to look good and serve well. They are not easily damaged. This saves time and money on repairs.

• Water resistance

  Plastic products that come from recycling are often water-resistant. This means they do not soak up water like many other materials do. Because of this, they make great choices for outdoor use or in wet places.

• Weight

  A lot of recycled plastic products are lightweight. This makes them easy to drag about and use in different areas. Even though they are light, many of them are still very strong and useful.

• UV Resistant

  Many recycled plastic products fight against UV rays from the sun. Thanks to this, they do not fade or lose their color easily, even after staying in the sun for a long time. This keeps them looking new and bright for many years. Plus, they stay in good shape and work well.

Uses of products from recycled plastic

Recycled plastic products have a wide array of uses across different industries. Some of the common uses include making outdoor fences, deck, and bench, to name but a few. Here are some of the most popular uses of recycled plastic.

• Clothing : With the advancement of technology, plastic bottles are now being used to manufacture clothing. There are many well-known brands that incorporate this type of fabric into their products, such as fleeces and jackets.
• Urban furniture: Bus stops, parks, and urban furniture in general are now using recycled plastic. This is a good way to ensure that the plastic is used as much as possible, and it also helps to keep urban furniture out of landfills.
• Insulation: Recycled plastics can be used to make insulation for electrical wiring as well as housing. This is a great way to keep plastic out of the landfills and help reduce the carbon footprint.
• Outdoor products: Many outdoor products, such as benches, are now made with recycled plastic. This not only helps to reduce the number of plastics in the landfill, but it also makes it possible for people to reuse plastic over and over again.
• Architectural elements: In some instances, plastics that have been recycled are used to create structural elements like roofing, window frames, and other similar items.
• Electronics: Many electronic devices have parts that are made from recycled plastic. It is not only environmental-friendly but also cost-effective.

How to choose products from recycled plastic

When selecting products made from recycled plastic, several factors require consideration to ensure quality, sustainability, and consumer satisfaction.

• Source-verified materials: Opt for items manufactured using source-verified recycled plastic. Knowing where the material comes from is crucial to its quality and the genuineness of its sustainable claims.
• Eco-friendly packaging and shipping: Prioritize products with minimal or entirely compostable packaging. The environmental impact of a product isn’t confined to its production—it extends to its distribution and packaging as well.
• Durability and quality: Recycled doesn't mean inferior. Numerous products made from recycled plastic boast durability comparable to, if not better than, their virgin plastic counterparts.
• Transparency and certification: Seek more information about the production process and the percentage of recycled content in the product. Transparency is a hallmark of reputable brands.
• Brand values: Support brands that prioritize sustainability across their operations, not just in individual product lines. Such companies often invest in research and development to enhance the quality of recycled materials.
• Life cycle analysis: Consider the product's entire life cycle—from extraction to disposal. Some recycled plastic products can be recycled again, creating a circular economy.
• Local vs. global: Local products have a lower carbon footprint due to reduced shipping distances.
• Price vs. value: While the value of recycled plastic products often goes beyond monetary considerations, it’s essential to balance price and value. Invest in products that will serve well in the long run.

Products from recycled plastic FAQ

Q1: What are some uses for recycled plastic?

A1: Many products made from recycled plastics start their lives as water bottles. After being recycled, they become everything from fleece jackets to carpeting to insulation for new water bottles to T-shirts to filling for beanbag chairs. Other recycled plastics used in bicycles, picnic tables, and television cases.

Q2: How is recycled plastic different from virgin plastic?

A2: Virgin plastic is new resin produced and processed to create plastic products. In contrast, recycled plastic is made from repurposed material pulled from the recycling stream.

Q3: What is the biggest challenge in recycling plastic?

A3: One of the biggest challenges facing the plastic recycling industry is low demand for recycled plastic. Many manufacturers still prefer virgin plastic because it's cheaper and more reliable than recycled plastic.

Q4: How long does it take for recycled plastic to decompose?

A4: Plastic bottles and containers can take up to 450 years to decompose in a landfill, while recycled plastic can find its way back into the market in mere months.