Goodwill of the Heartland introduces a new way to recycle plastic bags and flexible film — now available at all locations
Goodwill of the Heartland is expanding its sustainability efforts with a new in-store recycling initiative, making it easier for shoppers to responsibly dispose of plastic bags and other flexible film materials.
Through a partnership with NexTrex, all Goodwill of the Heartland retail locations now offer collection bins for plastic film — items that are not typically accepted in curbside recycling programs. Instead of ending up in landfills, these materials are recycled and transformed into durable composite products such as decking and outdoor furniture.
What can be recycled?
Accepted items include clean, dry plastic film such as:
- Grocery and retail bags
- Bread bags
- Produce bags
- Newspaper sleeves
- Dry cleaning bags
- Bubble wrap
- Plastic shipping envelopes
- Ziploc and other resealable food storage bags
- Cereal box liners and case overwrap
How it works
Shoppers can bring eligible items with them during their visit and place them in the designated collection bin, labeled and located on the sales floor of each store. Goodwill gathers materials as each bin fills and provides it to NexTrex for responsible plastic recycling.
Why plastic recycling matters
Plastic film is one of the most common materials that cannot be recycled through traditional curbside programs. By offering this collection option in-store, Goodwill of the Heartland is helping divert waste from local landfills while supporting a more circular use of everyday materials.
Small actions — like saving and recycling plastic bags — can add up to meaningful impact across our communities.