Why recycling matters
Reduces Waste,
Saves Resources
Recycling flexible plastics conserves resources, reduces waste, and decreases our environmental impact. By diverting plastics from landfills, we help preserve natural ecosystems and reduce the strain on raw materials.
The History of Flexible Plastics Recycling
Since the 1930s, flexible plastics have played a significant role in packaging, protecting products, and reducing material demand. As its applications grow, it’s equally essential to recycle these materials to harness their full potential. The flexible film, packaging and plastics industries continue to test and learn new ways that we can recycle these materials and recognize that the journey to recycle more and recycle better doesn’t have a finish line.
How you can make a difference
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WipeClean plastics ensure they can be recycled effectively without contaminating other materials. A light wipe with a dry cloth to remove any residue works well. -
GatherGather your items in a plastic bag, or another container, for more efficient drop off. Bringing in bulk saves time and supports better recycling practices. -
VerifyCheck the list of accepted items below before you bring something. This helps ensure your plastics are recycled correctly and not sent to landfill.
What can I recycle?
How plastic film is recycled
Recycled plastic films become products like lumber/decking, storm water management systems, construction materials, new flexible plastic films and more. Watch a 2-minute video to see plastic film recycling in action!
Test your recycling knowledge!
See if you’re a recycling expert and learn how you can better contribute to reducing plastic waste.
Our commitment to transparency
and verification
The Plastic Film Recycling Directory is managed by the Flexible Film Recycling Alliance (FFRA), a collaborative initiative advancing the recycling of plastic films. Our commitment to transparency guides how we develop and maintain this Directory.
We understand how important it is to follow through on what we say we will do and remain committed to providing full transparency on the actions we take. We commit to:
The information for this Directory comes from a variety of sources. Click here to learn more about how we gather and verify our data.
FAQ
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How do consumers know which flexible films are recyclable?
Generally if plastic film can stretch and has an equilateral triangle with resin codes 2 or 4 on it, it can be recycled. But we’ve also provided information on what exactly can be recycled on our website. Additionally, we encourage consumers to look for the How2Recycle Store Drop-Off label or to scan the Smart Label on your package, for guidance on where and how to recycle flexible films, if applicable.
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Why aren’t all flexible plastics recyclable today?
There are several reasons, but ultimately, U.S. recycling infrastructure isn’t made for small, thin, lightweight plastic film wrappers. Curbside recycling is taken to material recovery facilities (MRFs). At MRFs, plastic wrapping can fly into the air and get stuck in the machinery, causing them to halt their lines. Some flexible packaging is made of multiple layers that are difficult to recycle or break down.
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What is store drop-off recycling?
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’s important to verify before dropping off.
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Are there other ways to recycle flexible plastic films?
As one of the fastest growing packaging formats, more and more recycling pilot programs are being introduced. The Hefty ReNew™ program is available in select municipalities, giving consumers the chance to recycle alternative plastics curbside. Subscription services through specialty recyclers are also available in select municipalities for a monthly fee paid by the consumer. Certain communities may provide flexible films collection bins in public parking lots or community centers.
The FFRA is working to add alternative collection systems beyond retail drop off to our searchable database, so consumers can easily identify their best options for flexible film recycling.
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What is How2Recycle? Smart Label?
Several labels, including the How2Recycle label and Smart Label, exist to help consumers know how and where to recycle different materials.
How2Recycle is a third-party, standardized labeling system that clearly communicates recycling instructions to the public.
Smart Label is a QR code that provides information on recycling as well as other information a consumer may want to know.
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Why is the type of plastic so important?
Plastics are a category of various polymers (resins) each with unique characteristics. When different resins mix, the characteristics of the polymers change, which can prevent a particular resin from operating as intended. Sorting plastics by resin type reduces the risk of contamination and allows materials to be recycled continuously. The more we can sort resins correctly and reduce contamination, the better our chances are for consistent, circular recycling.
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Can I compost my flexible film packaging?
No, unless the package is specified or certified compostable. You can determine that by looking for the BPI certified compostable label. Most compost facilities are only capable of breaking down yard waste or food scraps. The industrial scale infrastructure needed to sufficiently break down compostable packaging remains limited in most communities.
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What are the recycling numbers on store drop-off recyclable plastics?
“Recycling numbers”—referred to as Resin Identification Codes—are small numbers that identify the type of plastic from which a material is made. Flexible plastic packaging with the #2 and #4 can usually be recycled at store drop-off locations. Look for the How2Recycle label to be sure your item is recyclable through store drop-off programs.
