Garbage bags, minimum recycled content mandates could help drive demand for recycled plastic film

In the search for better end markets for recycled plastic film, trash bags could be an ideal candidate — but only if recycled content laws and public demand also play a role, some experts say.

The humble garbage bag may be an ideal candidate to spur more sustainable plastic film recycling end markets, experts said at a plastic recycling webinar hosted by the Northeast Recycling Council (NERC) on Tuesday.

Recyclers and plastics producers on the panel discussed the barriers and opportunities with recycling polyethylene (PE) film plastic, the kind used to make plastic grocery store bags, wrap for pallets and even bubble wrap. During the wide-ranging discussion, speakers noted it's a valuable feedstock ideal for making many types of new products, including trash bags.

Read the full article from Waste Dive.