Do you ever feel like a plastic bag?

“Hello, ma’am would you like a plastic bag to carry that loaf of bread that’s also in a plastic bag?”

We’re handed a plastic sack after nearly every retail transaction. They float in the air, through parking lots and drift along the freeways like beautiful garbage balloons. But what can we do with these and the thousands of other plastic bags we use every year like, bread bags, cereal bags, bags for bags, bags with zippers, shrink wrap bags…

First, don’t throw them in your curbside recycling bin. They aren't accepted by most curbside recycling and the bags clog up their machines. But don’t throw them in the trash, either! Most plastic films can be recycled in the same grocery bag recycling bins offered at many larger grocery retailers (Walmart, Target, Walgreens, etc.). Be sure to check the receptacle for specific guidelines or exclusions. However, in most locations, you can also toss:

• plastic shopping bags
• food packaging (Ziploc-type bags)
• bread bags
• plastic liners from cereal boxes (do not include if they tear like paper)
• produce bags
• dry cleaning bags (remove staples, receipts, hangars)
• plastic newspaper wrapping
• product wrapping (such as covers a case of water bottles, etc.)
• bubble wrap and air pillows (popped)
• plastic shipping envelopes (remove labeling)

You cannot recycle:

• frozen food bags
• cereal box liners that tear like paper
• biodegradable bags
• pre-washed salad bags
• candy bar wrappers
• chip bags
• six-pack rings

*This list is sourced from https://recyclecoach.com/blog/item?id=92

Keep your clean, receipt, staple-free plastic films next to your reusable shopping bags and unload them at your next grocery run.