Newspaper Bags Put in Garbage Newspaper bags are a type of plastic film. Plastic film includes wraps, bags, and flexible packaging. It is not ideal for curbside recycling collection because it can jam sorting equipment, causing mechanical issues. There are many participating plastic film drop-off locations that can ensure these bags get recycled. Only items that are clean and dry will be accepted, so be sure the bags are completely empty and clean of residue Not all types of plastic film are accepted at all locations. Confirm acceptability prior to drop-off. If you are not planning on taking newspaper bags to a dedicated plastic film recycling location, then please place them in the trash container. Must Be Clean and Dry If newspaper bags are dirty or wet, they cannot be recycled. Water and other materials contaminate plastic film recycling. If bags are dirty or wet, clean and dry them or put them in the garbage. Ways to Reduce antb / Shutterstock.com Go Digital Most papers are offered online, so it’s easy to switch your subscription from paper to digital. Buy From the Newsstand Buy a newspaper from a stand instead of having it delivered so there is no bag. Ways to Reuse Use for Dog Waste Before buying brand new plastic bags for your dog, use bags such as newspaper bags that you already have on hand.