NexTrex launches plastic bag, film drop-off directory

In an effort to address “increasing concern” related to plastic bag and film recycling, Winchester, Virginia-based Trex Co. has launched the NexTrex Plastic Recycling Drop-Off Directory, an online searchable portal the company says is dedicated to connecting “eco-minded Americans with Trex recycling partners in their local communities.”

“With locations in all 50 states, the nationwide directory fills gaps in the marketplace, offering a comprehensive resource that empowers individuals to contribute to a greener planet by diverting plastic bag and film waste from landfills and waterways,” Trex says in a news release.

Through the NexTrex Plastic Recycling Drop-Off Directory, users can input their city, state or zip code to find NexTrex recycling partners in their area. Phase 1 of the directory currently includes approximately 10,000 drop-off sites nationwide, and Trex says new locations will be added as more retailers join the NexTrex program.

The directory also invites users to suggest alternate locations and provide feedback for program improvements.

“Plastic film is a tricky material that cannot be recycled in curbside bins with other recyclable materials, such as paper, cardboard and glass,” says Stephanie Hicks, materials and recycling programs manager at Trex. “The NexTrex program offers a simple way for people to dispose of flexible plastic waste responsibly and confidently. When you drop off plastic bags and film at a NexTrex recycling location, you know exactly where those materials are going and how they will be used.”

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Trex produces decking and railing products made with recycled content, processing recovered plastic film into flakes at its manufacturing sites in Winchester and Fernley, Nevada. The flakes are combined with reclaimed lumber to make composite decking, railing and other outdoor items. The company has a third manufacturing facility in Little Rock, Arkansas, expected to come online in 2026.

“This directory reinforces Trex’s involvement in the entire recycling process, from the collection and processing of plastic film to the creation of sustainable outdoor living products,” says Dave Heglas, senior director of recycled materials at Trex. “Unlike other retail recycling programs, we actively manage the process from start to finish to ensure the plastics that are dropped off at our partner locations successfully make their way to Trex where they are given new life as beautiful and sustainable Trex decking.”

The NexTrex directory is currently the only searchable platform for film recycling after the Film Drop-Off Directory managed by Sonoma, California-based Stina Inc. was removed in late 2023.

“We are proud to be a successful proof-of-concept that, when done properly and mindfully, plastic recycling is absolutely viable and not a myth,” Hicks says. “Our goal is to make the world a better place one plastic bag at a time.”