Can residents differentiate between plastics?

We tested residents on their knowledge of plastic symbols and here are the results

Lili Beth, Filipino, works at American Business Council. All answers incorrect.

“I see these symbols often, but I’m not sure what they are. Symbols are always on the products we consume, but rarely do people understand what they mean. I believe there should be a text to explain them. I will try to educate myself more so I can at least be aware of which plastic is harmful.”

Chris Petrov, AmericanRussian, management consultant. Correct: Nos 1, 2, 3, 4

“I’ve seen the symbols and I assume it has something to do with recycling, but I’m not aware what the numbers inside indicate.

I think as responsible adults, we should be smart enough to know what to use, where and how and research in case we are not sure of something.”

Vanja Dimitrijevic Serbia, structural engineer. Correct: No. 1

“I haven’t seen most of these symbols except the triangles on bottles, but I’m not sure what the numbers mean. To me they look like traffic symbols. If you want to recycle, I think knowing the symbols is necessary. Also, I think many people don’t recycle here. I will try to learn about these symbols.”

Abbas Mohammad Sudan, photo journalist. Correct: Nos. 2,4and7

“I avoid using plastic bags and instead go for recyclable bags and buy bigger water bottles instead of smaller ones. After finishing the water, I don’t throw the bottles away, but drop them into the designated recycling bin. It doesn’t take any effort, just a commitment to saving the environment.”

Anant Jain, India, software engineer. Correct: Nos 2and1

“Whenever I go shopping, I carry my own fabric bag. When I buy any plastic item, I check whether it has the recycling symbol [three rotating arrows]. If it lacks that sign, I don’t buy it because it will stay in the environment for years and pollute it. Also, I always carry a steel water bottle.”