Soft Plastic Recycling

NexTrex 'Bags to Bench' Challenge

Even though we’ve already earned a bench by recycling 1,012 lbs of soft plastics in October 2024, our partnership with Trex continues! Let’s keep collecting soft plastics and packaging to divert waste and support a greener environment.

How to Get Involved

Just gather your clean, dry plastic bags, wraps, and other soft plastics, and drop them off at the designated collection locations at CTC. Every contribution helps our community and the planet—let’s keep the momentum going!

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Acceptable Items 

	What Can be Recycled*?
	Grocery bags Bread bags Produce bags Cereal bags Ziploc and other reclosable food storage bags Case overwrap Dry cleaning bags Newspaper sleeves	Plastic shipping envelopes Bubble wrap Air pillow packaging Ice bags Salt bags Wood pellet bags Pallet wrap and stretch film Plastic films labeled with #2 or #4 recycling symbol (polyethylene films)
	*All plastic must be clean, dry, and free of food residue. View Acceptable Items

	Do NOT Include these Items in NexTrex® Recycling:
	Frozen food bags Candy bar wrappers Chip bags Net or mesh produce bags Degradable/compostable bags or film packaging Pre-washed salad mix bags Pet food bags Hot dog or meat wrap packaging	Six-pack rings PPE- Gloves, masks, or protective wear Pool covers Lamination film Silage and hay bags Backyard ice rinks Vinyl shower curtains or tablecloths Bedding or linen packaging Shiny, crinkly films like floral wrap

Don't See Your Item on the List?

Try these tests to see if your plastic is recyclable polyethylene or not or review the list of frequently asked questions:

1.  See if the package will stretch when you pull it. If yes, it can be included. If it tears like paper, the please do NOT recycle in the NexTrex® bin.
2. Is the package shiny or does it make a crinkly/crunchy sound in your hand? If yes, do NOT recycle in the NexTrex® bin.
3. Review list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Print your own flyer for home!

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Drop-Off Locations

Bring your collected plastic film to our designated collection points. Look for clearly marked bins at the two locations. Please note that your plastic film materials must be dropped off at one of the CTC bins in order for the co-op to receive credit toward our goal.

1. CTC Community Center (1250 Fifield Ave)
   Monday-Friday: Open 7:00 am-6:00 pm
   Saturday-Sunday: Closed
2. CTC Study Center (1295 Gibbs Ave)
   Monday-Friday: Access ​24 hours a day with Laundry Room Key (UMN #57)
   Saturday-Sunday: Access ​24 hours a day with Laundry Room Key (UMN #57)

Bin full/overflowing or needs help?

Each month, a CTC volunteer will empty the bins to weigh and deliver the collected plastic film to a participating retailer for recycling. Report a bin that needs emptying or assistance. 

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Volunteer

If you are interested in helping with plastic recycling drop-offs (typically 1-2 opportunities per month), we would love your help! Volunteering for this task can even be done in place of your co-op laundry room cleaning (with advance notice). Please contact Lindy or sign up here.

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Spread the Word

We believe in the power of community, and the more people who participate, the closer we get to our goal and the greater our impact will be. Please share this challenge with your friends, neighbors, and family to encourage their involvement in this important initiative!

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Each month, a CTC volunteer will weigh and deliver the collected plastic film to a participating retailer for recycling. Want to help volunteer? Email us!

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Questions?

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Lindy Wirth, CTC Communications and Community Outreach Manager.