Stretch film also known as stretch wrap is everywhere. It’s used to secure pallets, protect goods in storage, and keep shipments intact. But once it’s done its job, where does it go? Can you recycle stretch film?
The short answer is yes stretch film is recyclable, but there’s a catch: it must be handled correctly. Improper disposal leads to waste and environmental damage. Proper recycling can reduce landfill pressure, cut emissions, and even save costs for businesses.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to recycle stretch wrap, what materials are recyclable, and how businesses and individuals can turn plastic waste into a sustainable opportunity.
- What Is Stretch Wrap? A Complete Guide for Logistics & Packaging Professionals
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Stretch Film vs. Shrink Film: What’s the Difference and Which is Right for You?
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Can Shrink Wrap Be Recycled? A Complete Guide for Businesses
What Is Stretch Film Made Of?
Stretch film is a thin, flexible plastic film made primarily from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) designated as recycling code #4. These materials are strong, lightweight, and stretchable, making them ideal for wrapping pallets, boxes, and irregular loads.
Stretch film is often confused with shrink wrap, but they are different:
- Stretch film stretches and clings to itself without heat.
- Shrink wrap requires heat to form tightly around an item.
Only specific types of plastic film are recyclable and LDPE stretch wrap is one of them.
Is Stretch Film Recyclable?
Yes, but not in your regular curbside bin. Although stretch film is recyclable, it’s categorized as a “soft plastic”, which can jam municipal recycling machines if not processed separately.
However, when properly collected, sorted, and baled, stretch film can be recycled efficiently into new film products, plastic lumber, piping, or even back into new stretch wrap (known as PCR – post-consumer recycled film).
What Makes It Challenging?
- Contamination: Stretch film must be clean no food residue, dirt, or non-film plastics like packing tape or labels.
- Separation: Film must be separated from other recyclables.
- Volume needs: Most recyclers require bulk quantities to make collection economically viable.
How to Recycle Stretch Wrap
1. Clean and Sort
Remove any labels, tape, or foreign materials. Only collect LDPE/LLDPE film, not mixed plastic.
2. Store Properly
Keep film dry and clean in collection bins or containers. Moisture or food residue renders the film non-recyclable.
3. Bale for Pickup
Businesses and warehouses can invest in a film baler, which compresses large amounts of stretch film into manageable blocks. These can be sold or collected by specialized recyclers.
4. Find a Recycler
Use services like PlasticFilmRecycling.org or local industrial recyclers to locate drop-off sites or set up pickup programs. Many recycling companies accept industrial film recycling in high volumes.
Benefits of Recycling Stretch Film
- Reduces landfill waste
- Lowers carbon footprint
- Saves money on disposal
- Turns waste into new packaging
- Complies with sustainability policies
Some companies like Coca-Cola Consolidated and EcoEnclose have closed-loop programs where recycled film becomes recyclable pallet wrap again. These initiatives support the circular economy and reduce reliance on virgin plastics.
Industrial & Pallet Wrap Recycling Guide
For businesses and logistics operations, pallet wrap and industrial stretch film generate large volumes of plastic waste. Fortunately, these materials if handled properly can be efficiently recycled.
Best Practices for Businesses:
- Educate your team: Train staff to separate and collect film waste properly.
- Use a designated baler: Compressing film into bales makes storage, pickup, and resale more efficient.
- Partner with a recycler: Establish a long-term relationship with a local or national industrial film recycling company.
- Track your impact: Some recyclers provide reports showing how much material you've diverted from landfill.
Soft Plastic Recycling Near You
If you're an individual or small business looking to recycle soft plastic like stretch film:
- Check local drop-off points at major retail stores or through recycling networks like:
- PlasticFilmRecycling.org
- How2Recycle
- Look for plastics marked with codes #2 (HDPE) or #4 (LDPE)
- Ensure your film is clean, dry, and not mixed with non-recyclable materials
Recycling centers may not accept dirty, crumpled, or mixed-material film always read their guidelines.
Conclusion
Recycling stretch film is more than an eco-friendly action it’s a business-smart strategy. Whether you're shipping hundreds of pallets a day or just a few packages a week, how you handle your packaging waste affects both the planet and your bottom line.
