Plastic straws, plastic utensils and corrugated plastic signs are all accepted at CHaRM — but there are a few important guidelines to follow before your appointment.When you arrive at the facility, you’ll drop these items in Plasticville, where signage helps you sort plastics by type. Our team is always available to answer questions and make sure materials are placed correctly.
Understanding Resin Codes
Many plastic products include a resin code — a number from 1 to 7 inside a triangle. This symbol identifies the type of plastic used to make the product and helps determine recyclability. You can usually find it on the bottom or side of an item.For plastic straws, utensils and corrugated plastic signs, you do not need to locate a specific resin code before bringing them to CHaRM.
Plastic Straws and Utensils
Only plastic straws and utensils are accepted in Plasticville.Items made from compostable plastic, untreated wood or paper should not be placed with plastics. Those materials can be composted in the CompostNow bins available onsite.All plastic items must be clean and dry with no food or liquid residue. Keeping materials clean helps maintain their value and ensures they can be properly processed.
Corrugated Plastic Signs
Corrugated plastic signs must be truly corrugated — meaning they are made of two flat plastic sheets separated by a row of plastic flutes. This structure makes the material lightweight yet strong, similar to corrugated cardboard.Before recycling, remove any metal posts and place them with metal recycling.Corrugated plastic signs are sent to KW Plastics to be recycled into new plastic material. Plastic straws and utensils are sent to Smurfit WestRock and are currently directed to a waste-to-energy facility.By preparing materials correctly, you help divert materials from landfills and waterways and support sustainability efforts across Atlanta.Make your CHaRM appointment today and recycle with confidence.