SPI Resin Identification Codes

The SPI Resin Identification Coding System (“SPI Symbols”) is a set of symbols placed on plastic items to identify the resin type that the items were made from. The system was developed in 1988 by The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI).

The presence of an SPI Symbol on a package indicates ONLY that the package is manufactured from a certain resin type. The symbol does NOT imply that the item is recyclable. In the SPI article entitled “SPI Resin Identification Code – Guide to Correct Use”, SPI clearly states “do not use the term “recyclable” in proximity to the code”.

The SPI Resin Identification Coding System was developed to allow recyclers to efficiently identify plastic items that could be recycled. The system also provided manufacturers with a consistent, uniform set of symbols that could apply nationwide.

For more information on SPI’s Resin Identification Codes and their proper use, click on the following links:

• SPI Resin identification Symbols 
• ASTM Resin Identification Code Standard 
• SPI Resin Identification Code – Guide to Correct Use 

Table of SPI Resin Identification Codes: