What Trash Bags Can I Use for Recycling?

With the rising popularity of sustainability, recycling has become quite a popular habit.

But while that’s all and good, it raises another question – what trash bags can you use for recycling?

Well, that’s what we are here to answer today.

What trash bags can I use for storing my recycling in?

However, some recycling bags have more benefits than others.

Does recycling have to be stored in a clear bag?

No, recycling doesn’t have to be stored in a clear bag.

In fact, in countries like Canada, regular garbage must be placed in a clear bag while recyclables are placed in blue transparent ones. This is how the waste is laid outside so that the collectors can easily distinguish what goes where.

On the other hand, in the UK:

• Black bags are used for non-recyclable waste.
• Clear bags are used for mixed recyclables.
• Colored bags for one or more recyclable waste.

Ultimately, it is up to you to get in touch with your local authorities and figure out if there are any restrictions around the color of recycling bags you are required to use.

What are the best materials for bin bags that you will be storing your recycling in?

For the sake of sustainability, there are some types of bin bags you can opt for.

For one, you could choose recycled ones. While they are still made of plastic, at least it’s not a newly manufactured one.

Alternatively, you could opt for biodegradable trash bags. But these are less sturdy yet more expensive. Their seams come open easily and they don’t stretch either. And while they do break down to some extent, the conditions in landfills are not suitable for quick decomposition. They would do much better at an industrial composting facility.

When placed in a landfill, these bioplastic bags will ultimately just mummify like other landfill waste. They do have one advantage though – they don’t disintegrate into microplastics. As such, they will never make it to the oceans or other parts of the world.

Create less waste

Ultimately, the best way to be environmentally friendly about trash bags is to produce less waste in the first place.

Some of the ways you can do this include:

• Compost your food waste in your backyard or using local composting solutions.
• Shop at the farmer’s market to find fresh packaging-free produce.
• When doing your grocery shopping, primarily use reusable containers and bags.
• Whenever you do buy packaged items, try to get paper, metal, or glass packaging.
• Get household items made from.
• Recycle as much as you can.
• Try to buy food in bulk and avoid pre-packaged products. You can do this at your local health food store or Whole Foods. This way you can bring your own Tupperware, bags, and jars.

Whichever of the above-mentioned methods you start with will go a long way in reducing the number of trash bags you need!