PlasticResin code #2

HDPE — EPR Packaging Material Guide

High-density polyethylene is a durable, often opaque plastic used for bottles, tubes, jugs, caps, and personal-care containers.

Need help documenting HDPE packaging?

What is HDPE?

High-density polyethylene is a durable, often opaque plastic used for bottles, tubes, jugs, caps, and personal-care containers.

Common uses

Lotion bottlesDetergent jugsTubesCapsFood containers

EPR Classification

Report as HDPE or #2 plastic when the document states high-density polyethylene, HD-PE, PEHD, or resin code 2.

Recyclability: Natural and light-colored HDPE bottles are typically favorable; black pigments, pumps, and multi-material labels may reduce recyclability.

Recycled content: HDPE often has available PCR supply. Record PCR percentage and supplier certification where possible.

Common Packaging Formats

Format	Typical weight	Common products
Lotion bottle	20-40g	Body lotion, hand soap
Shampoo bottle	25-50g	Hair care
Detergent jug	60-120g	Home care

How to Document HDPE

• Ask suppliers for resin type, resin identification code, component weight, PCR percentage, and additives.
• Request separate weights for closures, pumps, liners, labels, and decorations.
• Do not report all plastics as one category; resin-specific classification is usually required.

Often Confused With

LDPEPPOther Plastic

Use supplier source text and evidence files to avoid material misclassification. When the material is uncertain, flag it for review rather than guessing.