Libby Library is NexTrex Plastic Recycling Drop-off Location!

What does this mean? You can now recycle certain types of plastic at the library! See the information below for the guidelines about what kind of plastic is eligible for NexTrex recycling, or pick up a pamphlet the next time you’re at the library. Less waste plus an excuse to visit the library? What’s not to love!

Plastic Recycling Dos & Don’ts

Did You Know?

1. Most clean and dry polyethylene (PE), labeled as #2 or #4, plastic film and bags are recyclable at participating retail and local drop-off locations.
2. Trex® purchases returned consumer bags and film from the majority of grocery and retail stores in the U.S., making Trex® the largest PE film recycler in the United States.
3. Trex’s premium composite decking is made from recycled grocery bags and other plastic film.
4. These materials are not normally accepted in curbside programs because they can get caught in the machines that sort other valuable recyclables like paper, cans, and bottles. And bags are generally too dirty after their trip in the back of the recycling truck to be recycled, even if they are collected at the recycling facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recycle plastic bags and film if they…

…are colored plastic?
YES, the color does not affect the recycling process.

…tear like paper?
NO, please do not include, as they are not currently accepted in film/bag recycling bins.

…stretch when I pull it apart with both hands?
YES, this is the correct type of plastic to recycle. If it doesn’t stretch or it tears like paper, please throw it in the trash.

…are thicker, stiff plastics for linens and beddings (including anything with a real zipper)?
NO, they are not the kind of plastic recyclers can use in their processes.

…have a paper label or tape stuck on?
YES, but large labels, tape and adhesive strips should be removed if possible. You can simply cut off of the label as the integrity of the bag isn’t important to the recycler.

…are pet food bags?
NO, this plastic is not recyclable.

…are boat wrap?
NO, because its intended use is to protect boats outside, which means it could contain barriers or be contaminated with moisture and debris that are problematic in the recycling process.

… are very shiny (like floral wrap) and make a loud crinkly sound when crumpled?
NO, this plastic film is not recyclable.

… have a shiny metal look like a chip bag or candy wrappers?
NO, this plastic film is not recyclable.

…have this NexTrex® label?
YES, brands and retailers are using this label to let consumers know that the plastic film package is recyclable.

…are labeled degradable AND recyclable?
NO, recyclers can’t risk using degradable plastics in new items so these items are not recyclable.

…contains other materials or is dirty or wet?
NO, plastic film must be clean and dry and the right type in order for it to be recycled. Please remove all other materials like tape, paper receipts, food residue and crumbs, and crinkly or rigid plastics (bottles and tubs). These contaminants can ruin the quality of the plastic and may result in it not being recycled.