Have you ever wondered why you can’t put plastic bags in your curbside recycling bin? Considered to be the most common type of litter, single-use plastic bags not only block local drainage systems and harm our wildlife, they create major havoc on recycling equipment by jamming up the gears. So what are you gonna do then?

Here are three simple things you can do with plastic bags:

1)     Return them to a local retailer
While Wegmans is a popular spot, you can also click here for a list of local retailers that offer plastic bag drop-off.

2)     Reuse them
Because it takes extra effort to recycle them, reuse them when necessary. Plastic bags make great pet and diaper waste bags in a pinch. They also work well to line small trash cans. While we hope your plastic bag supply continues to lessen, it’s always better to use what you have on hand, instead of buying new. And for all you crafty folks, click here for 50 projects using plastic bags.

3)     Avoid them all together
Make the switch to reusable shopping bags! Keep a stash of reusable bags nearby and grab them on your way out to your next shopping trip. The fewer plastic bags you use, the fewer you have to worry about recycling! (They also make a great gift for friends).

Remember, every little bit makes a big difference! And now that you know what you can do with plastic bags, you can help spread the word. Be sure to share this with your family and friends!