[PL] Where to dispose of plastic bags and pouches?

Plastic bags and pouches are products that accompany us on a daily basis – when shopping, storing food and even packaging all sorts of items. Due to their ubiquity, it is extremely important to know where and how to dispose of them so as not to harm the environment. Find out what you can reuse them for!

What containers should plastic packaging go into?

Plastic bags and plastic bags and pouches should be separated into special containers for plastics and metals. In our country, such waste is usually put in the yellow bins, which are intended for plastics recycling.

This is a key step to make it possible to recycle film, which could otherwise end up in landfills or, worse, in the environment, where it would take hundreds of years to decompose.

If you are unsure about your local waste segregation policy, it is worth checking information with your local authority, which provides detailed waste segregation guidelines.

Remember that your conscious decision to dispose of plastic packaging correctly has a real impact on reducing the amount of litter in the environment.

Where to dispose of dirty plastic bags?

Plastic bags and carrier bagsthat are soiled with, for example, food residues, grease or other substances, must not be disposed of in the plastic bin. Why not?

Soiled plastic bags may contaminate other recyclable waste, making the whole process less efficient. Therefore, in such a case, it is best to dispose of them in the mixed waste bins, i.e. those for rubbish that is not recyclable.

However, it is worth avoiding the disposal of soiled plastic bags if possible. How? Simply clean them gently, for example by wiping them with a damp cloth to remove larger dirt.

If the plastic bag is only slightly soiled and you have the opportunity to wash it, do so. This will ensure that it can be recycled instead of going to landfill.

In some cases, shops offer plastic bag collection points that recycle even slightly soiled plastic packaging. It is worth checking if there are any such programmes in your area.

What should I bear in mind when disposing of plastic bags and pouches?

When throwing away plastic bags, it is important to follow a few simple rules that make the recycling process easier and minimise the negative impact on the environment. Check out what to keep in mind!

1. Make sure the bags are clean – dirt can make the recycling process more difficult and result in plastic bags ending up in landfill instead of being recycled.
2. Don’t put plastic bags in paper or organic waste bins – plastic doesn’t decompose like paper or food scraps, and its presence in the wrong bin can disrupt the whole waste separation process.
3. Try to reduce single-use plastic packaging – instead of buying new bags, always carry one or two reusable ones. It’s a simple way to reduce your waste production.

A well-considered way of separating waste is not only a benefit for the environment, but also a conscious decision that, with each small step, can make a bigger difference.

What else can you do with used plastic bags?

Before you decide to throw away a plastic bag, think about how you can reuse it. Plastic bags are versatile and can be used for many tasks around the home.

1. Rubbish bags – plastic bags are great for storing waste, especially those in small bins such as in the bathroom or kitchen. Using plastic bags as rubbish bags saves on buying new bags and reduces the amount of waste generated.
2. Protecting your belongings on the go – if you plan to travel, you can use plastic bags to protect clothes from moisture or cosmetics to avoid spills. A tied plastic bag effectively protects against dirt and moisture.
3. Segregating small items – plastic bags are ideal as a way to organise small items around the house, such as tools, cables or electronics accessories. Keep cupboards and drawers tidy by using plastic bags as temporary organisers.
4. Plant protection in the garden – you can also use the used plastic sheets as temporary plant covers during frosts, thus protecting your plants from low temperatures.

The possibilities for reusing plastic bags are endless. Instead of throwing them away after a single use, consider how they can be useful in your home. Taking a responsible approach to what you do with plastic packaging is an important step towards a sustainable lifestyle. Remember that RAJA offers a wide range of plastic bags and pouches that can help you in both your daily life and your business.

In addition, you can find more information about the proper handling of plastic waste in the article: Where to dispose of bubble wrap?