Recycle twist ties and other plastics

TagBack program

Twist ties, bread clips and other commonly used plastic tags can now be recycled at five PCC stores in a new sustainability pilot program. The TagBack pilot at the Redmond, Ballard, West Seattle, Burien and Green Lake Village PCC stores is part of PCC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and waste diversion.

 

What is TagBack recycling?

The TagBack program helps reduce waste by “upcycling” commonly used produce and product tags—think twist ties, bread clips, scannable produce packaging, and ElastiTag hang tags. These items are not accepted in most municipal recycling bins and often wind up in trash bins, but when returned to PCC through TagBack they will be recycled into plastic lumber. Bedford, a Minnesota-based company that manufactures twist ties and other packaging, oversees TagBack and also manufactures the plastic lumber.

“This is a perfect example of the circular economy in action—turning waste into something useful and durable,” said Mike Wenrick, PCC’s Director of Purpose. “This TagBack pilot builds on PCC’s commitment to sustainability, following our successful plastic film take-back program in partnership with Seadrunar at the end of 2024, furthering our efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote responsible recycling practices within our communities.”

 

Why TagBack recycling matters

It’s easy to overlook the small plastic items we use every day, like twist ties and bread clips. But when you add them all up, they create a significant environmental impact. TagBack helps divert these items from the landfill, giving them a second life instead of letting them contribute to plastic pollution.

“Within the produce industry, most sustainability goals don’t match the capabilities of the American recycling system due to varying local recycling parameters,” said Jay Milbrandt, president of Bedford Industries. “We have spent years searching and perfecting the best recycling equipment to reuse our own waste and target a zero-landfill goal. Now, with TagBack, we want to make our recycling systems available to retail partners.”

 

How you can recycle twist ties

Next time you’re picking up your fresh produce or products with twist ties, bread clips, or ElastiTag hang tags, remember that they can be recycled. Simply bring these items with you on your next trip to Redmond, Ballard, West Seattle, Burien, or Green Lake Village PCC stores and drop them off in the designated TagBack bins found in the produce department. Unfortunately, items like general plastic packaging, plastic bags, and non-tag-related waste cannot be returned here.

“This isn’t just about returning tags—it’s about creating a ripple effect of sustainability. By participating in the TagBack pilot, you’re supporting responsible practices and circularity. You’re contributing to a cleaner environment and a more sustainable future. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with a like-minded community of people who care about making positive environmental changes,” Wenrick said.

For more information on recycling plastics with TagBack and to learn about other ways you can get involved in sustainability, visit tagback.com.

 

PCC recycling partners

PCC’s packaging standard is online here and frequently asked questions about the standard are here. Interested in a sample of other PCC recycling initiatives and partners?

See how:

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