Black plastic will be phased out under Green To Go

The Green To Go ordinance addresses recyclable and compostable to-go containers for food.

Black plastics have been allowed under Green To Go. However, it will be phased out.

Green to Go will meet with businesses and other stakeholders to collect feedback. They will review comments and suggestions to determine how to move forward to reduce the impacts of black plastic.

Black plastic criticisms

Black plastics are trash. Using black plastics do not align with the City of Minneapolis Zero Waste Plan goal of reducing waste.

Some of the problems:

• Recyclers are no longer accepting black plastics

• Black plastics do not have good end markets to make them into new materials

• Black plastics are not allowed in Minneapolis residential recycling carts

• Black plastics end up in the landfill or are sent for incineration

What businesses can do

It is encouraged to stop using black plastics when your current supply is used up.

Instead of black, purchase clear or white recyclable plastic. Another alternative is to use compostable containers.

Learn more about the City’s Zero Waste Plan

Support

If you have questions about Green To Go, contact Minneapolis 311 by emailing Minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov or calling 612-673-3000. Ask for an Environmental Health supervisor.