Yes, flexible plastic can be recycled, although the process differs from rigid plastics.
Many types of flexible plastic, often made from polyethylene (PE) films, are collected through specific programs, such as store drop-offs or designated curbside collections where available. Once collected, this material isn't simply sent to landfills; it enters a dedicated recycling stream.
The Flexible Plastic Recycling Process
The journey of flexible plastic from waste to new products involves several key steps:
- Collection: Flexible plastic films, bags, and pouches are gathered, often separate from other recyclables.
- Baling: The collected material is compressed into large bales to make transportation and handling more efficient.
- Processing: These bales are sold to independent companies that specialize in recycling flexible plastics.
- Transformation: The films are processed and turned into tiny plastic pellets. This is a crucial step as it converts the light, flimsy material into a usable raw form.
- Manufacturing New Products: These pellets are then used by manufacturers to create new items.
According to the reference provided, after collection and processing into pellets, this material has several potential new lives. The pellets can become synthetic lumber used for durable outdoor structures like decking or park benches. Importantly, they might be recycled directly into another film, pouch, or bag form. This demonstrates a closed-loop recycling potential for flexible plastic packaging itself.
By participating in flexible plastic recycling programs, you help divert significant amounts of material from landfills and support the creation of valuable new products, including new packaging.
