Film plastic includes everything from plastic mailers, plastic grocery bags, bread bags, bubble wrap and newspaper bags to shrink wrap and product overwrap. Some kinds of film plastic can be placed in collection bins at retail stores, where they are made into composite lumber and woven reusable plastic shopping bags. (Though this isn’t true recycling, this ‘down-cycling’ of plastic bags allows for a little more use than if they were discarded in the trash.)
Pull the film with your hands and if it stretches and doesn’t break, you can take it to the store for collection. If it breaks, it should be thrown in the trash. These include vegetable bags, bread bags, plastic mailers, and bubble wrap. Click here for more examples of acceptable film.
Make sure to rinse out any food and dry completely. Clean and dry stretchy plastic bags and wrap are accepted at many retail stores, including Shaws, Star Market, and Whole Foods Markets. Bins are usually located outside or inside near the entrance. Drop-off locations may be found HERE.
And remember, never place your recyclables in plastic (or paper) bags before placing in the recycling bin!