At the Garza Home Team at RE/MAX North San Antonio, we strive to keep our community informed about local changes that impact daily life. Recently, an article from Texas Public Radio highlighted a significant update from the San Antonio Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) regarding plastic recycling practices. Starting August 1, SWMD will no longer accept single-use plastic bags in the blue recycling cart, even if bundled together.
Why the Change?
SWMD has decided to stop accepting plastic bags due to operational challenges. These bags often get tangled in recycling sorting equipment, leading to machinery malfunctions and inefficiencies. Despite efforts to include them in recycling programs over the years, the practical challenges have outweighed the benefits.
Citywide Impact
This policy shift isn’t exclusive to San Antonio; other major Texas cities like Houston and Dallas have implemented similar measures. According to SWMD Deputy Director Josephine Valencia, none of the nation’s largest cities accept plastic bags in their recycling programs.
What You Can Do
To adapt to these changes and support sustainable practices:
- Use Reusable Bags: Shop with your own reusable bags to reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
- Retailer Recycling Programs: Many retailers, including HEB, offer recycling bins for single-use plastic bags. HEB alone has collected over 58 million pounds of plastic since 2004.
- Proper Disposal: If unable to recycle at a retailer, place plastic bags in the brown trash cart to prevent contamination of other recyclables.
Moving Forward Together
As part of the San Antonio community, adapting to these changes ensures we contribute positively to environmental conservation efforts. The Garza Home Team encourages everyone to stay informed and take proactive steps towards sustainability.
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