Tips on Recycling Plastic Bags and Film Packaging

Most polyethylene bags, film and wraps are recyclable, but require a different type of recycling than plastic bottles and containers. Plastic bottles and containers usually are collected curbside, while major grocery chains ask that used clean and dry plastic bags and wraps be recycled in bins in front of the store or near the checkout.

Many retailers accept plastic bags, film and wraps for recycling. These include dry-cleaning bags, bread bags and wraps from paper towels, bathroom tissue, napkins, diapers and newspaper bags. So, next time add “recycling plastic bags and film” to your grocery list. Below are examples of the kinds of material that can be brought to a retail drop-off.

What is that chasing arrow symbol?

On the majority of packaging in the U.S., one will find a chasing arrow symbol with a number inside. This is a resin identification code (RIC) and it represents the type of resin used in a package. The RIC was never intended to be used for recycling purposes, but many municipalities do use the codes to help pre-sort plastics. The code can be confusing to consumers and efforts are being made by industries, local governments and NGOs to standardize and simplify the plastic collection process.

When recycling your plastics, take a moment to check with your community to see what kinds of plastics are accepted. This is very important because, depending upon the type of sortation equipment available at a Material Recovery Facility, an incorrect type of plastic could create costly contamination issues. It may be helpful to print out a copy of what your community collects and to keep it near your home or office recycling bin.

Reduce and Reuse

While recycling is always an option for plastic bags, film and wraps, reusing them and reducing your usage is also important.

More than 90 percent of plastic bag owners say they reuse their bags at home.

Here are some helpful tips for reusing your old plastic bags:

• Use plastic bags instead of expensive filler when packing
• Use bags as trash can liners
• Use them to pick up animal waste
• Create art—plastic bag crochet patterns are available online
• Cut the bags to make bibs or aprons
• Hold umbrellas, dirty gym clothes or food for work – but not all at the same time

Also, try to reduce your usage with these tips:

• Only take a bag when you really need it
• Utilize reusable bags when shopping
• Pack the bags as full as possible! Keep in mind that a plastic bag can hold up to 17 pounds of product – nearly 2,000 times its own weight