SaniPro Disposal Leads Waste Industry in Banning Plastic Bags
Plastic Bag Ban Reaches New Heights!
At the start of 2017, a disposable plastic bag ban became effective in New Castle, New York. The outfit that handles recycling pickup in this city, SaniPro Disposal, is taking things a step further and putting an end to picking up recyclables placed in plastic bags. This move further reduces the need and reliance on disposable plastic bags and helps pave the way for reusable recycling bags.
Bag Ban in New Castle
New Castle is in Westchester County and located about 40 miles north of New York City. A ban on single-use plastic bags went into action in New Castle on January 1, 2017. The law prohibits the distribution of disposable plastic bags at all stores and levies a 10-cent fee on paper bags at grocery and convenience stores and pharmacies. The law is designed to promote the use of reusable shopping bags and help protect the environment.
No Bags in Recycling Bins
SaniPro wants to eliminate recyclable items contained in plastic bags. Sometimes people may collect their items to be recycled in a plastic bag, tie off the bag and toss it in a recycling bin. This poses a hassle for the waste management company because the items need to be removed from the bag in order to process. The bags themselves can become stuck in the sorting equipment which will slow down the operation and potentially break equipment.
Helping Residents with the Transition
Starting on January 1, 2018, SaniPro will no longer pick up recyclables bound in plastic bags. Items are to be loose and unbagged when placed in recycling receptacles. If workers find bagged recyclables they will not collect the bag and they will affix a sticker to the bag. The sticker explains why they will not accept the bag and provides contact info in case the resident has questions.
Recycling Challenges
Reports show that 75 percent of the American waste stream is made up of recyclable materials, but only 30 percent ends up being recycled. This is a staggering difference that is the result largely due to the difficulty many residents find when it comes to recycling. Curbside recycling works well for people living in single-family homes, but for residents of apartments and multi-family dwellings, recycling can be a challenge.
Benefits of Reusable Recycling Bags
Our reusable recycling bags address the recycling challenges faced by renters. The durable bags can be used to collect recyclables, and when the bag is full it can be emptied into a community collection bin. Residents have the convenience of a bag, but the reusable nature means the recycling bag can be used over and over again. Reusable recycling bags also keep disposable plastic bags out of the recycling stream for added convenience.
Learn More
We were thrilled when New Castle passed their disposable plastic bag ban, and we are even more thrilled to see SaniPro take this next step to further reduce disposable plastic bags. The plastic bag ban movement is something we are passionate about and if you would like to learn more check out our map. Get in touch to learn more about reusable recycling bags or to request a quote.
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