WASHINGTON – Wegmans Food Markets Inc. has joined the American Chemistry Council’s (ACC) Flexible Film Recycling Group (FFRG), making the grocery chain the first retailer to help the group advance its polyethylene film recycling efforts.

“From plastics recycling to greener store designs, Wegmans’ commitment to sustainability is widely recognized,” said Shari Jackson, director of FFRG, in a press release. “As the first retail grocer member of the Flexible Film Recycling Group, the company will have valuable insights into programs to increase the recycling of plastic bags and wraps.”

Wegmans stores have collected used plastic bags for recycling since 1994, with its shoppers return approximately 1.5 million pounds of polyethylene film every year. Wegmans also collects another 1.5 million pounds of plastic stretch/shrink wrap from shipping pallets. The plastics are recycled to make the company’s 40% recycled-content grocery bags, as well as durable backyard decking products.

“Recycling of plastic bags and film is one effective way to address environmental concerns,” said Jason Wadsworth, sustainability coordinator for Wegmans. “Because of our closed-loop system, bags and film that customers return for recycling at our stores are made into new Wegmans bags, not litter.”

FFRG membership represents the polyethylene film value chain, including resin suppliers, film product manufacturers, brand owners and recyclers.