Alexei Volkov
Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, and recycling is one way to reduce plastic waste. However, not all plastics are recyclable, and the infrastructure for recycling varies by location. To recycle plastics locally, you can start by checking with your local council or municipality, as some provide flexible film collection bins in public spaces. Retailers also offer in-store drop-off programs for plastic bags and flexible packaging, but it's important to verify which plastics they accept. Online databases can help you find local recyclers by searching with your postcode or zip code, and some plastics can even be mailed to specialist recyclers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to find local plastic recycling | Search online using your zip code or postcode |
| Items accepted | Plastic bags, films, and flexible plastic packaging |
| Preparation | Clean plastics with a dry cloth to remove residue |
| Collection | Drop-off at stores or put in curbside recycling bins |
| Plastic types | LDPE, HDPE, PP, PS |
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What You'll Learn
Store drop-off recycling
The How2Recycle Store Drop-off label is a helpful guide to identify which flexible polyethylene-based plastics can be recycled through store drop-off. These include high-density polyethylene (HDPE, or #2 plastic) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE, or #4 plastic). However, it is important to note that not all items with these labels may have store drop-off recyclable packaging. Additionally, consumers can scan the Smart Label on packages for guidance on where and how to recycle flexible films.
The NexTrex program, run by the Trex Company, is another example of a store drop-off recycling initiative. NexTrex partners with retail chains and grassroots movement locations across the United States to provide bins for plastic bag and film recycling. The collected plastic is processed into composite decking material, giving new life to recycled plastic.
While store drop-off recycling is a convenient option, it is worth noting that not all flexible plastic packaging may be accepted by retailers. Consumers should verify the accepted materials and any specific requirements or guidelines before bringing their plastic waste to the store. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the plastic is clean and free of any residue to prevent contamination during the recycling process.
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Retailers that accept LDPE
LDPE, or low-density polyethylene, is a type of plastic that is commonly used in transparent packaging such as shrink wrap, produce bags, and squeezable ketchup bottles. It is flexible, oil-resistant, and chemical-resistant, making it ideal for various applications. However, LDPE is not as widely recycled as other plastics, with just 6.2% of LDPE recycled in 2015, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
One way to recycle LDPE is through grocery store drop-off programs. Some grocery stores and other businesses that provide LDPE bags set up collection bins where customers can return used bags for proper recycling. Additionally, some retailers that accept LDPE for recycling include:
- Miller Recycling: Accepts LDPE for processing and pays competitive prices for recyclable plastics. They aim to keep LDPE out of landfills and offer a beneficial service for businesses.
- How2Recycle: This organization provides a Store Drop-off label on flexible polyethylene-based plastics, including LDPE. Participating retailers have collection bins near the front of the store where customers can drop off their LDPE waste.
- Earth911: This website features a Recycling Locator where you can enter your zip code and find a list of stores that accept LDPE for recycling.
It is important to note that not all locations or municipalities accept LDPE for recycling. Check with your local recycling program or municipality to understand their specific guidelines and drop-off locations for LDPE and other plastics. Additionally, remember that plastic bags should not be recycled through curbside recycling programs as they can cause issues in recycling machinery.
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How to prepare plastics for recycling
Preparing plastics for recycling is a critical step in ensuring that they are effectively recycled and do not end up in landfills or incinerators. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prepare plastics for recycling:
Identify the Type of Plastic
Not all plastics are created equal when it comes to recycling. Different types of plastics have different recycling processes and requirements. Check the bottom of plastic containers for a number, typically inside a triangle, indicating the type of resin used. The most commonly recycled plastics are #1 (PET) and #2, which have the highest recycling value. Plastics #3 to #6 are more challenging to recycle, and some centres may not accept them. Plastic #7 is the most difficult to recycle and is often excluded.
Rinse and Clean the Plastics
Food waste and residue can contaminate an entire batch of recyclables, rendering them useless. It is crucial to rinse and clean plastic containers thoroughly before placing them in the recycling bin. Ensure there are no food particles or liquids (other than water) remaining in the containers. If possible, clean the plastics so they are safe to use again.
Remove Labels and Lids
Remove any labels from the plastic containers. Metal lids and caps should also be removed and disposed of separately, as they cannot be recycled with plastics. Some metal lids can be recycled separately, but check with your local recycling centre.
Separate Different Plastics
Recycling only works when like materials are recycled together. Separate different types of plastics, such as rigid plastics and plastic films. Keep in mind that plastic bags, straws, and plastic films like grocery bags, chip bags, and cereal bags are not recyclable and should be avoided or reused if possible.
Check for Local Guidelines
Recycling guidelines can vary depending on your location. Contact your local recycling company or refer to their website to get specific information on what plastics they accept and any special instructions they may have. Some centres may have additional requirements or restrictions.
Avoid Reusing Certain Plastics
While reusing plastics can reduce waste, avoid reusing plastics made of PET, as they are meant for single-use and can harbour bacteria and harmful chemicals. Also, avoid reusing PVC and polystyrene products, as they contain toxins that can leach into food, especially when heated.
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Local recycling centres
Recycling plastic is essential to harness its full potential and ensure that materials are effectively recycled without contaminating other materials.
Many local recycling centres offer plastic recycling services. To find a local recycling centre, you can use online tools such as Earth911's Recycling Locator, which allows you to search for recycling centres by entering your zip code. You can also try Recycle Now, which provides information on local recycling options by entering your postcode.
Some local recycling centres may have specific requirements or limitations on the types of plastic they accept, so it is essential to check with your local centre before dropping off your items. Some centres may only accept certain types of plastic, such as flexible plastic films or specific resin codes. Others may have programs that collect plastic bags and other flexible plastic packaging.
Store Drop-off Programs
Additionally, some retailers sponsor store drop-off programs that allow consumers to bring qualifying plastic films and other flexible plastic packaging to their stores for recycling. These programs are often found at major retail chains and can be identified by looking for the How2Recycle Store Drop-off label on flexible polyethylene-based plastics. Before bringing plastic items to a store, ensure they are clean and dry to prevent contaminating other materials.
Other Options
If you cannot find a local recycling centre or store drop-off program, there are other options available. Some communities may provide collection bins for plastic films in public spaces such as parking lots or community centres. There are also subscription services through specialty recyclers in select areas, and certain recyclers may accept mailed-in plastics.
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Flexible plastic films
Plastic film is the wrap around many household products and is also commonly used in e-commerce packaging. It is important to recycle flexible plastic films to conserve resources, reduce waste, and decrease environmental impact.
To recycle your plastic film, first make sure that it is clean (with no food residue) and dry. Then, take it to your nearest drop-off location to be collected for recycling. There are more than 18,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada, including many grocery stores. Some retailers and grocery stores have in-store drop-off programs for plastic bags, film, and wrap.
Store Drop-off recycling is a retailer-sponsored program that collects plastic bags and other flexible plastic packaging in their stores. Consumers can collect and save qualifying plastic films and bring them to stores to recycle. Some flexible plastic packaging is not accepted through these programs, so it is important to verify before dropping off.
Look for the How2Recycle label on your items to find out detailed disposal instructions. Eligible materials will not always have a How2Recycle label, but an increasing number of companies are including these labels on their products. Generally, if plastic film can stretch and has an equilateral triangle with resin codes 2 or 4 on it, it can be recycled.
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Frequently asked questions
You can find local plastic recycling centres by searching online using your postcode or zip code. Some websites to try include Earth911, How2Recycle, NexTrex, and Recycle Now.
The types of plastic that can be recycled vary by location. Generally, if plastic film can stretch and has an equilateral triangle with resin codes 2 or 4 on it, it can be recycled. Type #4 plastics are accepted at many retail locations. Type #5 plastics can be mailed to a recycler called Preserve. Type #6 plastics can be mailed to recyclers listed in the EPS Industry Alliance directory.
Before taking plastics to a recycling centre, ensure they are clean and dry to prevent contamination of other materials. Gather your items in a plastic bag or another container for efficient drop-off.
