Sofia Martinez
Plastic bags are a major contributor to environmental pollution, and their disposal is a pressing issue for cities like Vancouver. While plastic bags are technically recyclable, the process is often challenging and costly, and many recycling programs do not accept them. In Vancouver, the situation is evolving, with some recent changes to plastic bag recycling options. Previously, plastic bags were not accepted in curbside recycling programs, but residents could drop them off at specific depots or recycling centres. Now, some grocery stores in Vancouver are providing plastic bag recycling bins, and certain soft plastic bags are accepted in curbside pickup bins.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bags recyclable? | Yes, since January 2023 |
| Curbside recycling | No, must be dropped off at depots |
| Types of plastic bags | Soft plastic bags, reusable plastic bags, grocery bags, shopping bags, plastic wraps, plastic with cloth/rope/ribbon handles (after removing handles) |
| Other recyclables | Plastic straws, aluminum foil, plastic planters, plastic utensils, rigid plastics (storage containers, patio furniture, toys, laundry baskets, bins, durable food storage containers, reusable water bottles) |
| Recycling app | VanCollect |
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What You'll Learn
Soft plastics recycling
Plastic bags and other soft plastics can be recycled in Vancouver. However, it is important to separate soft plastics from other plastics and ensure they are dry, clean, and residue-free for proper recycling. Soft plastics include items like plastic bags, wrappers, and bubble wrap.
The Flexible Film Recycling Alliance (FFRA) manages the Plastic Film Recycling Directory, advancing the recycling of plastic films. Recycling soft plastics is essential to reducing the amount of plastic sent to landfills, which helps prevent the pollution of land, rivers, and oceans. It also reduces the consumption of raw materials and saves energy.
Some soft plastics, such as potato chip bags, cannot be recycled and must be disposed of in the landfill garbage. To determine whether a soft plastic can be recycled, pay attention to the number in the recycling logo rather than the symbol itself. Soft plastics with a recycling logo can be placed in the appropriate container for recycling.
There are several ways to recycle soft plastics in Vancouver. One option is to use a WasteNot Compost bag, which can be requested as an add-on to the current compost service. Once the bag is full of accepted plastics, it can be collected and sent to companies like NexTrex that recycle soft plastics to create eco-friendly products. Another option is to use the VanCollect smartphone app, which helps users determine which bin to use for different types of garbage. Additionally, some companies like TerraCycle offer boxes specifically for recycling soft plastics.
By properly recycling soft plastics, we can divert them from landfills, preserve natural ecosystems, and reduce the strain on raw materials and energy consumption. It is important to continue developing new ways to recycle more and recycle better to minimize the environmental impact of plastic waste.
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Recycling symbols
Plastic bags can be recycled in Vancouver, even if they do not have a recycling symbol on them. The City of Vancouver has a VanCollect smartphone app that can be used to find out where to recycle different materials. Plastic bags are considered "soft plastics" and can be dropped off at a recycling centre. Some grocery stores also have collection bins for soft plastics.
The most common recycling symbol is the Mobius symbol or "chasing arrows" with a number inside, also known as the Plastic Resin Identification Code. The number inside the triangle, ranging from 1 to 7, identifies the type of plastic resin used and helps determine the proper disposal or recycling method. For example, Symbol 1, or PETE, represents polyethylene terephthalate, commonly used for beverage bottles and food containers. Symbol 4, or LDPE, is used for plastic bags and wrapping and can be recycled at specialist points. Symbol 7, or "Other," includes plastics such as acrylic and polycarbonate, which can often be recycled or repurposed.
It is important to pay attention to the numbers within recycling logos, as they are better indicators of whether an item is recyclable in a particular city or municipality. Curbside recycling programs may have specific guidelines for accepting certain types of plastics, such as HDPE or LDPE, and it is recommended to fully clean and dry plastic bags before recycling them.
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Recycling apps
Plastic bags can be recycled in Vancouver, but it is important to separate them from other types of plastic packaging. Soft plastics, such as plastic bags, can be recycled at depots but not through curbside bin and bag pickup. Plastic bags with cloth, rope, or ribbon handles can also be recycled if these additions are removed.
The use of recycling apps can provide several benefits. Firstly, they can improve convenience and accessibility by allowing users to quickly and easily look up disposal methods for specific items. This can save time and effort compared to searching through websites or guidelines. Secondly, recycling apps can enhance the accuracy of recycling practices. They can provide up-to-date information on recycling rules and regulations, reducing the likelihood of contamination or incorrect disposal. This, in turn, can lead to better environmental outcomes and contribute to a more sustainable future.
However, it is important to note that recycling apps may have limitations. They may not always be comprehensive or applicable to all locations. It is advisable to cross-reference information from multiple sources, including local waste management guidelines, to ensure accurate and contextually appropriate recycling practices.
In conclusion, recycling apps can be a valuable tool for individuals seeking to properly recycle their plastic bags and other materials in Vancouver. By providing easily accessible and location-specific information, these apps can empower users to make more sustainable choices and contribute to a greener community.
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Reusable plastic bags
Plastic bags are recyclable in Vancouver, but they must be taken to a recycling centre. Soft plastics, such as Ziploc bags, plastic wrap, and shopping bags, can be recycled. However, it is important to pay attention to the number in the recycling logo, as this is a better indicator of whether something is recyclable in your city. Some plastic bags with cloth, rope, or ribbon handles can be recycled if these additions are removed.
Reusable storage bags are another type of reusable plastic bag that can be used for food storage and marinating. These bags are often BPA-free, freezer-safe, leak-proof, and easy to seal. They are an environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags and can save money in the long run. It is recommended to hand wash reusable storage bags, as dishwashers may damage the closure mechanism.
Compostable materials, such as FSC-certified kraft paper, offer a balance between breathability and moisture retention, making them a suitable alternative to plastic bags for food storage.
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Drop-off locations
Plastic bags can be recycled in Vancouver, but they cannot be recycled through curbside pickup. Instead, they must be dropped off at a recycling centre or depot.
Recycling centres and depots that accept plastic bags include:
- Recycle BC depots
- Metro Vancouver Recycling and Waste Centres (only certain locations accept plastic bags, so check before dropping off)
- Save-On-Foods
- Buy-Low Foods
- Choices Market
- Nature's Fare Markets
- PriceSmart Foods
- Nesters Market
- Quality Foods
Some private plastic recyclers also accept plastic bags for recycling, but there may be a cost involved.
There are also smartphone apps that can help you find the nearest drop-off location for plastic bags and other recyclables, such as the VanCollect app and the Vancouver Waste Wizard app.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, plastic bags can be recycled in Vancouver. Plastic bags and overwrap are included in a province-wide recycling program under Recycle BC. Items such as grocery and shopping bags, outer wrap for flats of beverage containers and diapers, and garden product bags can be dropped off free of charge at a number of depot locations across the province.
Plastic bags can be dropped off at a participating depot free of charge. To find a depot near you, visit the RCBC Recyclepedia or contact the RCBC Recycling Hotline for all options available in your community.
Plastic bags with cloth, rope, or ribbon handles cannot be recycled unless the handles are removed. In addition, wraps like potato chip bags that you cannot poke your finger through are not recyclable and should be thrown in the landfill garbage.
