Adding more plastic bags and outer wrap to the Blue Box

Waterloo Region – Effective immediately, Waterloo Region residents can recycle more plastic bags and outer wrap in their Blue Box.

 Recent advances in technology have opened new opportunities for the recycling of additional plastic bags and plastic outer wrap. Now, plastic bags and outer wrap that are #4 and #6 can be recycled. These include bags from bread, fresh and frozen vegetables, softener salt, newspapers, and dry cleaning. Recyclable outer wrap includes the wrap found on packages of paper towels, toilet paper and diapers, as well as outer wrap on soft drink and juice cases.

There are some plastic bags that are not recyclable due to their mixed plastic composition and multi-layered construction. Non-recyclable bags include ‘zipper’ bags, stand-up pouches, cling wrap and bags that crinkle such as pasta and snack bags. Also, not accepted are bags or wrap that have been in contact with meat or cheese.

Residents have been recycling grocery and retail store bags for many years. Recycling these new bags and outer wrap follows the same method: empty, put all the bags and outer wrap into one bag, tie the bag closed and place this bag along with newspapers in the Blue Box.

For a complete list of what can go where, try the new waste item search tool, the Waste Whiz, at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/wastewhiz.

Additional information on all our waste programs can be found on our website at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/waste, in the township collection calendars or by calling customer service at 519-575-4400.

 -30-

Media contact:

Cari Rastas Howard, Project Manager, Waste Management Programs
519-575-4400 ext. 8412, choward@regionofwaterloo.ca

The Region of Waterloo provides more than 60 per cent of municipal services to a growing population of 550,000 people. We are committed to creating an inclusive, thriving and sustainable community through innovative leadership and a range of services such as: public health, social services, planning, heritage, water supply, regional roads, waste management, ambulance service, rural libraries, public transit, community housing, emergency planning, Provincial Offences Courts and airport services. 

SEE ATTACHED FILE BELOW FOR NEW PLASTICS RECYCLING POSTER