Omar Khalid
Plastic bags are a major contributor to environmental pollution, and many cities are taking steps to reduce their use and improve recycling practices. Washington, D.C., is no exception, with initiatives like the Share-A-Bag program and the Plastic Film Recycling Directory. However, it is important to note that plastic bags are not accepted by D.C.'s residential recycling program, and residents are advised to avoid bagging their recyclables. So, what is the current situation with plastic bag recycling in D.C., and how can residents properly dispose of their plastic bags?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bags accepted in residential recycling programs | No |
| Plastic bags accepted at local retailers | Yes |
| Plastic bags accepted at DPW transfer stations | Only for clean and empty recyclables bagged in a clear bin liner from commercial entities |
| Plastic liners recyclable | No |
| Recyclables should be bagged | No, but open paper bags are accepted and recycled along with the materials collected |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic bags are not accepted by DC's residential recycling program
In fact, recyclables should not be bagged at all. DPW-collected curbside residential recyclables should be left loose in the bin. However, residents may prefer to collect recyclables in an open paper bag, which can be recycled along with the materials collected.
If you are unsure about how to dispose of an item, you can use Zero Waste DC's "What Goes Where?" tool. Simply search for the item you are looking to dispose of and receive information on how to properly do so in the District.
To reduce plastic waste, DC's Department of Energy and Environment has launched a Share-A-Bag initiative in the NoMa DC Neighborhood. Participants can grab a free, reusable bag or leave one at the exchange kiosks.
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Plastic bags can be recycled at local retailers
Plastic bags cannot be recycled through Washington DC's residential recycling program. However, they can be recycled at local retailers that are voluntarily participating in a plastic film recycling program. There are more than 25 locations throughout the District, with additional options in Maryland and Virginia.
To find your nearest drop-off location, you can enter your zip code into the Plastic Film Recycling Directory. All recyclable items must be clean and empty.
It is important to note that plastic bags should not be placed in your curbside recycling bin. The District's curbside recycling collection program works best when materials are loose in the bin, and recycling facilities may reject recyclables if they are enclosed in a plastic bag or film.
To reduce plastic waste, the DC Department of Energy and Environment has launched a Share-A-Bag initiative in the NoMa DC Neighborhood. This program encourages the use of reusable bags by providing free, reusable bags at exchange kiosks.
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Clear plastic bin liners are accepted for recyclables from commercial properties
In Washington, DC, plastic bags, wraps, and films are not accepted by the residential recycling program. However, clear plastic bin liners are accepted for recyclables from commercial properties, including multifamily dwellings with four or more units and non-residential commercial entities. These clear plastic liners are provided for the convenience of commercial operations and are not prohibited, but recycling haulers may still choose not to accept them.
DPW's transfer stations will accept clean and empty recyclables bagged in clear bin liners from commercial entities. DPW-collected curbside residential recyclables, on the other hand, should not include any bags or liners. Recyclable materials such as bottles, cans, and paper should be placed loosely into the curbside recycling bin. Although the District's curbside recycling collection program functions optimally when materials are not bagged, some residents may opt to collect recyclables in an open paper bag, which can be recycled along with its contents.
It is important to note that plastic bags cannot be recycled with other recyclables in residential bins. However, they can be recycled at local retailers and grocery stores that voluntarily participate in plastic film recycling programs. Residents can locate the nearest drop-off point by using the Plastic Film Recycling Directory and entering their zip code.
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Recyclables should be loose in the bin
In Washington, D.C., it is important to keep recyclables loose in the bin. The District's curbside recycling collection program works most efficiently when materials are not bagged. Bagged recyclables may even be rejected by recycling facilities.
Although some residents may prefer to collect recyclables in an open paper bag, which can be recycled along with the materials collected, it is best to avoid using plastic bags for recyclables. Plastic bags can contaminate recyclables and cause machinery to clog, leading to costly delays and reducing the benefits of recycling.
If you must use a bag for your recyclables, an open paper bag is the best option, as these will be recycled along with the materials inside. DPW's transfer stations will accept clean and empty recyclables bagged in a clear bin liner from commercial entities, but this is not recommended for residential recycling.
To reduce plastic waste, it is best to avoid plastic bags altogether and opt for reusable bags instead. DC's Department of Energy and Environment has launched a Share-A-Bag initiative, where participants can grab a free, reusable bag or leave one at the exchange kiosks.
Additionally, it is important to note that certain items, such as electronics and batteries, should never be disposed of in residential bins. Special waste drop-off services are available for these items. By keeping recyclables loose in the bin and properly disposing of special waste, residents can help ensure that their recyclable materials are effectively recycled and contribute to the city's waste reduction goals.
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Reusable bags are encouraged
Plastic bags are not accepted by Washington, D.C.'s residential recycling program. However, they can be recycled at local retailers and grocery stores that participate in plastic film recycling programs. To find the nearest location, residents can enter their zip code in the Plastic Film Recycling Directory.
For those who live in tall buildings with trash and recycling chutes, it is recommended to follow the building's guidance on recycling. Some buildings may have staff that unbags the recycling, while others may provide private recycling services.
DPW-collected curbside residential recyclables should not be bagged. Recyclable materials such as bottles, cans, and paper should be dumped loosely into the curbside recycling bin. Although the District's program works best when materials are not bagged, residents may use open paper bags, which will be recycled along with the materials collected.
Commercial properties, including multifamily dwellings with four or more units, may use clear plastic liners to collect recyclables. However, these liners are not recyclable, and recycling haulers may choose not to accept them. DPW's transfer stations will accept clean and empty recyclables bagged in clear bin liners from commercial entities.
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Frequently asked questions
No, plastic bags are not accepted by DC's residential recycling program.
Recyclable materials should be dumped loosely into your curbside recycling bin. If you are disposing of recyclables through store drop-off, you can drop them off at grocery stores and retailers that participate in a plastic film recycling program.
Your recyclables may be rejected by the recycling facilities.
You can use paper bags or reusable bags.
You can recycle plastic bags at local retailers. There are more than 25 locations throughout the district along with additional options in Maryland and Virginia.
