What can we do about plastics?
There are currently recycling bins like this for plastic bags and wraps near the entryways at most groceries and some department stores. These stores are collecting many forms of plastic (bags, wraps, mailers—enlarge the poster for more items) that do not go into our curbside recycling carts. In turn, they are selling these items by the truck load to plants (like Trex) that use them to make composite lumber for durable items such as decking, railings and benches.
So, putting them in a collection bin is one sure thing you can do to create
useable goods from throwaway plastic.
Another Option?
Mankato Area Zero Waste decided to publicize this collection and expand the number of bins available in public places. We also decided to reach out to businesses and institutions that daily have large amounts of pallet wrap and plastic packaging arriving at their back doors. We provide a collection bin from Trex, give them collecting bags if they need them and we can transport full bags to stores that are selling them to Trex, if they want that help.
Since the plastic collection program started in April 2025 it has grown from 3,600 pounds in the first six months to an average of 13,000 pounds per year the last four years. There currently 13 private bins in businesses and schools and 12 public bins (locations below).
- Lake Crystal: ACE Hardware and GRACE Thrift
- North Mankato: Taylor Library
- Mankato: Target, Kohl’s, Walmart, Hy-Vee (both), Cub (both), VINE, Mankato City Hall lobby
Acceptable and Not Acceptable
(Please click on thumbnails below to see larger view)
