CPIA study reveals plastic bag recycling available to 93% of Canadian population

Recycling of plastic carry-out shopping bags is locally available to 93% of the Canadian population according to a new study prepared for the Canadian Plastics Industry Association (CPIA).

Also, over 60% of Canadian residents can recycle other types of plastic bags and flexible plastic over wraps in their municipal recycling programs, according to the recently released study "Canadian Population Access to Recycling of Plastic Shopping Bags and Other Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Film in Canada", prepared by Canadian based company, CM Consulting.

The study identifies around 550 municipalities across Canada that collect the shopping bag. Most of these also accept the broader stream of plastic bags and over wraps: dry-cleaning bags, newspaper bags, bread bags, produce bags, sealable food storage bags, wraps around paper products (napkins, paper towels, diapers, bathroom tissue), and case wrap from bulk beverages and foods.

In addition, an extensive network of around 1,200 retail drop-off locations across Canada collect plastic carry-out shopping bags for recycling, most being at major grocery chains and mass merchandisers. On this basis, it was determined that 83% of Canadians live near a store that accepts plastic carry-out shopping bags in their community.

"Plastic bags and over wraps are a valuable resource and easily recycled after use. We see an opportunity to grow the recycling network and we look forward to further working with all stakeholders to increase consumer recycling access for the broad stream of polyethylene bags and overwraps," says Cathy Cirko, Vice President of CPIA.

"Regardless of where you recycle, the CPIA encourages consumers to make sure bags and wraps are free of any food residues and are clean and dry. The best recycling method is to place items in a plastic shopping bag and tie handles when full. Recycling closes the loop as bags and wraps can be made into new bags, plastic decking and other household items," comments Carol Hochu, President, CPIA.