Keep “tanglers” out of your recycling bin

Plastic bags are referred to as “tanglers” when it comes to recycling because they and other tanglers (rope, electrical cords, string lights and clothing) cause huge problems when they’re put in the recycling bin. Long or stretchy items get tangled up in the gears at recycling facilities causing work stoppages so they can be cut free. It’s dangerous work, but also tedious and costly. Constantly shutting down work makes the process go slower and becomes more expensive to sort.

Some of these tanglers can be taken to recycling depots. For instance, electrical cords and string lights are accepted at many metal recyclers.

Plastic film can also be dropped off for recycling. There are drop boxes located at all New Seasons Markets and most grocery stores around the area.

Find out more about plastic film recycling and what’s accepted.

Check out the video on this page to see the havoc that tanglers cause at facilities.