You can tell whether a piece of consumer plastic is PET by looking for a number “1” stamped inside the universal recycling symbol. The number you see in the symbol stands for the type of plastic used ...

PET (or PETE) Polyethylene terephthalate Clear drinks bottles ... Not generally collected from households for recycling. However, mixed plastic recycling is expected to be under way within five years.

Scientists have identified bacteria in wastewater that can break down PET plastic, offering a potential pollution solution.

This story is part of Planet or Plastic?—our multiyear effort to raise awareness about the global plastic waste crisis. Learn what you can do to reduce your own single-use plastics. Read this ...