UWM Launches Plastic Film Recycling Initiative to Divert 10,000 Pounds Annually
SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) has launched a new recycling initiative aimed at diverting hard-to-recycle plastic film from landfills. The initiative was developed by UWM recycling and solid waste specialist Ben Konitzer.
The program reflects how universities and institutions are tackling difficult waste streams, a trend closely followed across the RecyclingMonster recycling and waste management platform.
Program Targets Grocery Bags and Flexible Plastic Packaging
The program will collect a wide range of materials including grocery bags, shipping envelopes and other flexible plastic packaging that are not normally accepted through standard recycling systems.
The collected material will be sent to specialized recyclers, where it will be processed into new products, helping to close the loop on soft plastics that typically end up in disposal.
Expected Landfill Diversion and Cost Savings
According to UWM, the initiative is expected to keep more than 10,000 pounds of plastic film out of landfills each year.
Apart from this, the program also offers huge financial benefits. Each bale of collected plastic film can save the university roughly $500 through reduced disposal costs.
Collection Bins Installed Across Campus
Special collection bins have been installed at several campus locations, including the School of Freshwater Sciences, Office of Sustainability, Off-Campus Resource Center and university housing facilities.
There will be additional collection points to serve campus departments and operational areas, making it easier for students, staff and departments to participate.
Call to Action for Students and Staff
Officials are encouraging students, employees and departments to use the new plastic film recycling initiative to reduce landfill waste and prevent plastic pollution.
By directing plastic film to dedicated bins instead of regular trash or curbside recycling, the campus community can help improve material recovery and reduce contamination in standard recycling streams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UWM plastic film recycling initiative?
It is a new program developed by UWM recycling specialist Ben Konitzer to collect and recycle hard-to-recycle plastic film such as grocery bags and flexible packaging.
What materials are accepted in the program?
The program accepts grocery bags, shipping envelopes and other flexible plastic packaging not normally accepted through standard recycling systems.
How much plastic film does UWM expect to divert annually?
UWM expects the initiative to keep more than 10,000 pounds of plastic film out of landfills each year.
What financial benefit does the program provide?
Each bale of collected plastic film can save the university roughly $500 through reduced disposal costs.
Where are the plastic film collection bins located on campus?
Bins are installed at the School of Freshwater Sciences, Office of Sustainability, Off-Campus Resource Center and university housing facilities, with additional points planned.
Market Relevance
This UWM plastic film recycling initiative illustrates how institutions are creating targeted collection systems for soft plastics, helping to reduce landfill volumes, lower disposal costs and support emerging markets for recycled flexible packaging.
