The world of recycling is an ever-changing landscape. Organizations are engaging in research and development projects to discover new ways to use recyclables.
As of June 1, Recycle BC started a pilot project that accepts what they call “other flexible plastic packaging.” These materials are being accepted at 116 designated Recycle BC depots, including all London Drugs stores across B.C.
Recycle BC has partnered with Merlin Plastics of Delta to develop ways to take plastics and convert them into engineered fuel. For Merlin Plastics to conduct this type of research they need a enough plastic to run tests on the component parts. Recycle BC is more than happy to be their supplier. Collected plastics need to be clean.
So what type of plastic is being collected for this pilot program?
- Crinkly wrappers and bags
- Bags for potato chips, candy, dried pasta, cereal, etc.
- Cellophane for flowers, gift baskets, etc.
- Wrappers for cheese slices, snack bars, instant noodles, etc.
- Flexible packaging with plastic seal
- Packaging for fresh pasta, pre-packaged deli meats, pre-packaged cheese, etc.
- Woven and net plastic bags
- Net bags for avocados, onions, oranges, lemons, limes, etc.
- Woven plastic bags for rice, etc.
- Non-food protective packaging
- Padded protective plastic like plastic shipping envelopes, plastic air packets, bubble wrap.
While the “other flexible plastic packaging” program is in the pilot phase right now, Recycle BC hopes all their depots will adopt the program by January 1, 2019.
Want to find out more about this project and the type of plastics Recycle BC is collecting for this program? Go to recyclebc.ca and follow the links.
