The Problem with Plastic Bags
Plastic bags might seem small—but they cause big problems.
When plastic bags go in the recycling bin, they can jam sorting equipment, cause shutdowns and delays, and even send otherwise recyclable materials straight to the landfill. At sorting facilities, staff and machines need to quickly identify and separate materials. Bagged items can make this task impossible, causing them to be skipped altogether and sent to the landfill.
♻️ RECYCLE RIGHT:
– Place items loose in the bin—no bagging
– Only exception: shredded paper can go in a paper bag
– Never place plastic bags in curbside recycling containers
– Return plastic bags to participating store drop-off bins for recycling
Recycling works best when everyone participates correctly. By keeping plastic bags out of your curbside recycling bin, you help protect equipment, improve recycling efficiency, and reduce pollution in our environment.
A Better Option: Reuse
The best practice is to reduce the need for plastic bags in the first place. Keep reusable bags in your car, purse or backpack so they are always on hand when you shop. That single use plastic bag holds your purchases from the store to your home, but it can linger in our environment for years – hundreds of years. Single-use plastic bags don’t truly go away. Over time, they break down into tiny pieces known as microplastics. These particles can make their way into waterways, soil, and wildlife, creating long-term environmental harm. Making reuse a habit helps prevent waste before it starts. Remember to B.Y.O.B. – Bring Your Own Bag.
Thank you for doing your part to care for Alachua County—it truly makes a difference.