Plastic Film: Clogging Recycling, Polluting Landfills

Soft, stretchy plastics, commonly found in grocery bags and packaging, present a major environmental hurdle due to their persistence and difficulty in proper disposal. If sent to landfills, these materials can take centuries to degrade, releasing harmful microplastics. In 2018 alone, the United States saw over 3 million tons of plastic bags, sacks, and wraps disposed of in landfills.

These flexible plastics, often termed plastic films, also disrupt curbside recycling processes by clogging machinery, causing significant operational issues and potential damage. Production continues unabated, with global plastic treaty negotiations stalled, partly due to resistance from oil-producing nations concerning limits on oil-based plastic manufacturing.

Identifying plastic films, such as bread bags or cereal liners, is key. Unlike rigid plastics, they are soft and flexible. Many are made of polyethylene (types 2 or 4) and can be recycled at grocery or convenience store drop-off bins. Multi-layered films, however, are more complex and should not be placed in general recycling.

Proper disposal involves taking clean, dry plastic films to designated store drop-off points. Companies like Trex utilize these collected films to create products such as outdoor decking. Local organizations also repurpose them for art or new items. Reducing consumption by opting for reusable bags and minimal packaging is also a vital strategy.

Even simple actions, like reusing plastic bags for multiple trips or as bin liners, extend their lifespan. While a completely plastic-free existence is challenging, making conscious choices and utilizing proper recycling channels for plastic films significantly contributes to environmental protection, as experts emphasize that any effort makes a difference.