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No blue bags

Blue bags for mixed recycling need to be emptied and recycled separately
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By Keith McNeill

No plastic bags in mixed recycling includes the blue plastic bags that many people put their recycling in, according to Jamie Vieira, manager of environmental services with the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.

“People can still use blue bags for mixed recycling, but they will need to be emptied and recycled separately when dropped off at the depot,” he said.

The change went into effect on Sept. 5 – TNRD is no longer accepting plastic bags with mixed recycling.

“If you have a contractor collect your recycling, check with them for their requirements,” he advised.

If the contractor allows bagged recycling they will be required to empty the bags when dropped at the depot.

The change is due to new requirements from the TNRD’s recycling processor, Vieira explained.

Because recycling recovery facilities throughout B.C. have changed to meet new standards, the TNRD’s facilities are no longer able to process plastic bags in mixed recycling loads.

The regional district suggests that residents check to see if their grocery store has a plastic bag “take back” program, or inquire at their local bottle depot for recycling options.

There are also many ways to reuse plastic bags, such as garbage bags in vehicles or smaller garbage cans, or as padding in parcels and packages. They are also handy when cleaning up after pets.

If bags can’t be reused or recycled, they can be disposed of in household garbage.

The change impacts the entire TNRD recycling program, including curbside collection in Blue River, Avola and Clearwater, as well as eco-depots and transfer stations.