This webpage offers residents options and information to help reduce exposure to toxic chemicals from plastic.
The environmental and health impacts of plastics
Everyday products from toothbrushes to bottles are made from plastic — a material derived from petroleum, a nonrenewable resource. Plastic production contributes to pollution, and many plastics can release synthetic chemicals that affect human health and wildlife. A significant amount of plastic waste ends up in the ocean and in San Francisco’s environment, making it important to reduce use and recycle properly.
Types of plastics: What you should know
Understanding plastic identification codes
If you must use plastics, it is best to avoid plastics 3, 6 and 7 to minimize environmental and health impacts.
Plastics products can be easily identified based on the number assigned to them inside the “chasing arrows” symbol. For instance, popular disposable water bottles are often made of polyethyelene terephthalate ethylene (PETE) and are assigned the number 1.
Here are common types of plastic:
| Plastic number | Common uses | Health notes | Environmental notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 – PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) | water bottles, soda bottles, food containers | generally considered low risk for single use; not intended for repeated heating or reuse | widely recyclable in San Francisco; high volumes contribute to litter and marine debris |
| #2 – HDPE (high-density polyethylene) | milk jugs, detergent bottles, shampoo bottles | considered a lower-risk plastic | recyclable in San Francisco; durable and commonly recovered |
| #3 – PVC or V (polyvinyl chloride) | clear food packaging, cling wrap, shower curtains, building materials, flooring and children’s products. | may contain hazardous additives such as phthalates; production can release toxic chemicals (like dioxins) | rarely recyclable in curbside programs; associated with toxic byproducts during manufacturing and disposal |
| #4 – LDPE (low-density polyethylene) | plastic bags, wraps, squeezable bottles | generally considered lower risk | plastic film is not accepted in San Francisco’s blue bin; must be taken to designated drop-off locations; easily becomes litter and marine debris |
| #5 – PP (polypropylene) | yogurt containers, takeout containers, straws | considered relatively stable; may degrade when exposed to high heat | recyclable in San Francisco if rigid; lightweight products often become litter |
| #6 – PS (polystyrene) | foam cups, takeout containers, CD cases, hard packing | Styrene can leach from polystyrene and over the long term, can act as a neurotoxin. Studies on animals report harmful effects of styrene on red-blood cells, the liver, kidney, and stomach organs. | not recyclable in San Francisco curbside programs; easily breaks into small pieces and contributes to ocean pollution |
| #7 – Other (mixed plastics, including polycarbonate) | specialty containers, some reusable bottles | While Plastic 7 marked OTHER does not contain BPA, Plastic 7-PC can leach harmful bisphenol A (BPA). | recyclability varies; often not accepted in curbside programs |
Because recycling rules vary by material and location, residents should always follow San Francisco’s recycling guidelines when disposing of plastic products.
Health and environmental notes
While some plastics are considered lower risk and are widely recyclable in San Francisco, others are associated with hazardous additives, limited recyclability, or significant environmental impacts.
Plastics that are difficult to recycle or that easily break into small fragments are more likely to contribute to litter and marine pollution. Reducing single-use plastics and choosing reusable alternatives can help limit these impacts.
How San Francisco recycles plastics
San Francisco’s recycling program accepts any rigid, solid plastic that holds a shape and is hard to break or crumple with bare hands. This includes:
- emptied and cleaned plastic bottles
- plastic tubs and lids
- plastic cups
- plastic buckets
- plant, yogurt, and clamshell containers
Plastic toys can be recycled as long as they have no metal parts, batteries, circuit boards or wiring.
Plastic film (bags, wraps) should not go in curbside recycling; instead, find drop-off locations through SFRecycles.org.
Tips to reduce plastic use and exposure
Reducing plastic use helps protect public health, prevent pollution, and support San Francisco’s zero waste goals. Small changes at home, at work, and in the community can significantly reduce single-use plastics and limit exposure to harmful chemicals.
At home
Reducing plastic at home starts with everyday choices.
- Choose reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and food containers instead of single-use options.
- Avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in microwaves. Use glass or ceramic instead.
- Bring reusable shopping bags and produce bags when grocery shopping.
- Purchase products with minimal packaging or packaging made from paper, metal, or glass.
- Refill and reuse containers whenever possible.
These actions reduce waste and limit potential chemical exposure from certain plastics.
When shopping and dining out
Food packaging is one of the most common sources of single-use plastic.
- Request reusable or compostable foodware when dining in.
- Skip plastic straws, utensils, and condiment packets unless needed.
- Support Green Businesses that follow San Francisco’s environmental requirements.
- Choose products labeled “BPA-free” when purchasing reusable containers.
Making informed choices encourages businesses to shift toward safer and more sustainable materials.
For businesses and community organizations
Businesses and institutions play a key role in reducing plastic pollution.
- Comply with San Francisco’s Single-Use Foodware Plastics, Toxics, and Litter Reduction Ordinance.
- Switch to reusable foodware for on-site dining when possible.
- Avoid products made from polystyrene foam.
- Train staff on proper recycling and composting practices.
These actions reduce waste, lower disposal costs, and align with local environmental policies.
San Francisco laws and policies on plastics
San Francisco has adopted local laws to reduce single-use plastics, prevent litter, and protect public health. These policies support the City’s zero waste and climate goals.
Single-Use Foodware Plastics, Toxics, and Litter Reduction Ordinance
These rules apply to food and beverage vendors, event producers, and retailers. Click on the section below to learn details about compliance. Learn more about the ordinance.
Food Service and Packaging Waste Reduction Ordinance
The law applies to anyone who sells or distributes food ware, packing materials, and other specified products, or anyone packaging products for sale within San Francisco. Learn more about the ordinance.
San Francisco's Mandatory Recycling and Composting Ordinance
Everyone in San Francisco is required to separate and put their recycling, composting, and trash in the right place. View the Factsheet.
Resources and guides
Explore guides, toolkits, and educational materials from our partners to help reduce plastic use and improve recycling practices.
Smart Plastics Guide - summary of seven types of commonly used plastics, product examples, recyclability, and potential health risks, PBS/National Geographic (PDF)
How To Reduce Plastic - Ecology Center (PDF)
