The gist of it is the same reason plastic lids have non-recyclable qualities — even though the plastics may show the same number as your recyclable plastics they go through a very different manufacturing process. Marti at Eco-Cycle has a longer answer that talks about the process part of the problem.

That said there are some things you can do.

First you need to learn your own community’s recycling guidelines. Where I live you don’t check for numbers you just look at the plastic; if the container has a cylindrical quality such as many prescription bottles you can’t recycle it. If it has a neck and shoulder you’re good to go. This is not across the board; some states or cities have different regulations and will simply take any and all plastics, as long as they show the correct number (usually 1-7 or a variation). Check with your local city or county website for links to your recycling program.

Other things you can do:

• I’ve read about some people having luck reusing their bottle at the pharmacy. Such as taking the same bottle in and having the pharmacist refill it; but I also have read a lot where people have loads of trouble getting their pharmacy to do this. Some may consider it a household hazardous waste container
• You can always start at the source. If you don’t like how companies are packaging their product write and tell them so. Your pharmacy has contact information for your prescription manufacturer and contact info is also likely on-line. Tell your pharmacy what you don’t love about non-recyclable bottles. Ask manufacturers for bubble pack pill holders (still waste but less) or ask them to switch to a neck based bottle.
• Where I live there is a separate recycling plant nearby that will take items that curbside won’t. There may be one near you. Mine is conveniently listed on my county recycling information page. But if you can’t find one easily call your local recycling program and say, “Where do I take stuff that you won’t” they’ll let you know. Mine takes prescription bottles, shoes, hardback books, butter tubs, plastic wrap, plastic packaging materials, bubble wrap, and tons of other items that curbside won’t.

And a few more ideas…

• Plastic lumber manufacturers like this one, tend to take most types of plastics as well so if there’s a plant near you you can try that.
• Certain medical missions accept used prescription bottles.
• Use them for storage of paper clips, buttons, kids glitter, and other small objects.
• Dip the ends in ink or paint for perfect circles in kids art projects.

What else can you think of?

One last tip. Although prescription bottles are the perfect size for small candies; don’t do this. It’s way too easy for kids to translate candy in a pill bottle to all things in bottles are candy. It’s a dangerous practice that I’ve seen some folks do; but really you shouldn’t.

Post from: Tree Hugging Family