"Plastic Recycling Directory Shuts Down Due to Industry's Lack of Commitment"
The national online recycling directory for plastic bags and plastic films, known as the Film Drop-Off Directory, has been taken offline after 20 years of operation. The decision was made due to a lack of real commitment from the industry and a funding shortage to maintain credible information on the site. An ABC News investigation revealed that many plastic bags dropped off at Walmart and Target stores listed on the directory were sent to landfills and incinerators instead of being recycled. The investigation played a part in calling attention to the problems, but the decision to shut down the directory was also influenced by larger issues, including greenwashing. The American Chemistry Council's Wrap Recycling Action Program, which initially funded the directory, has also gone offline.
