Don’t Trash That Wrap—Recycle It!

March 24, 2025| Community, Environment, Events

By: Kyle Richter

Spring is finally here and that means that boating season is just around the corner, which means it’s almost time to uncover your boat and get it ready for the water. But before you toss that shrink wrap in the trash, let’s talk about a better option—recycling!

Why Recycle Boat Shrink Wrap?

Boat shrink wrap is made from a type of plastic that can be recycled into new products like plastic bags, composite lumber, and even more shrink wrap. Unfortunately, too much of this material ends up in landfills when it could be given a second life. Recycling helps keep plastic out of the environment and reduces the demand for new raw materials. Last year alone, 19 tons of boat shrink wrap was recycled in Morris and Sussex County—helping to prevent a massive amount of plastic waste from ending up in landfills or waterways. Let’s keep that momentum going!

The Lake Hopatcong Foundation, Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority, Sussex County Municipal Utilities Authority, Roxbury Clean Communities, and Jefferson Township have partnered with UltraPoly, a Pennsylvania-based company, to once again offer free shrink wrap recycling. Boaters around Lake Hopatcong can bring their properly prepared shrink wrap for recycling to the Jefferson Health Center on May 3 from 9 am to 12 pm.

How to Recycle Your Boat Shrink Wrap

Recycling your boat shrink wrap is easy! Here’s how:

• Remove all non-plastic materials – Before recycling, take off any ropes, vents, and zippers. These extra materials can’t be processed and will need to be disposed of separately.
• Keep it clean and dry – Shake off any dirt, leaves, or debris. A clean wrap ensures a smooth recycling process.
• Bundle it up – Fold or roll the shrink wrap into a manageable size. Some programs may require you to bag it in special recycling bags.
• Bring it for Recycling on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 9 AM to 12 PM at the Jefferson Health Center, 57 Minnisink Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849

By recycling your boat shrink wrap, you’re not just keeping plastic out of landfills—you’re helping create a cleaner environment for our lakes, rivers, and oceans. Encourage your fellow boaters to do the same and spread the word! It’s a simple step that makes a big difference. Happy boating!