Plastic Bags and Film
What can be recycled?
Retail bags, dry cleaning bags, bread bags, shipping pillows, sealable or “zippered” plastic food bags, flexible plastic wraps on paper towels, cases of soda, cotton balls, bathroom tissue, and more
Why it wants to be recycled
Plastic bags and flexible wraps, also known as “film,” are recyclable and — like other plastics — can be used to make many other products. Recycling reduces litter, lessens the amount of waste going to landfills, and gives a valuable resource a second life.
How to recycle it
Return plastic bags and films to labeled receptacles, widely available at grocery and retail outlets. Do not include food or cling wrap, prepared food bags, biodegradable bags, or film that has been painted or has excessive glue. Check your local ordinances for specific instructions — this category is easily contaminated with incorrect preparation or the wrong materials.
What does recycled plastic bags and film become?
Once collected, plastic bags and film are baled and sent to recycling centers. Here, the used bags are cleaned, processed, and turned into flakes and pellets. The pellets are used to make new plastic shopping bags, durable outdoor fences, decks, shopping carts, and home building products.
Did you know?
America’s recycling of plastic bags and film increased by 56% from 2005 to 2012. There are currently more than 15,000 locations nationwide — primarily major grocery and retail chains — where you can take plastic film to be recycled.
Mythbuster
MYTH: Your lunch sandwich bag cannot be recycled with your plastic bags, wraps, and other film.
FACT: Sandwich bags (with or without zippers) can be taken to your local retail establishment for recycling with other plastic film.
Super Sorter
Recycle different kinds of materials. Sort fast and give trash a new life!
Recycling Journey
See how recycled materials can be transformed into new, exciting and useful things.