Queen Anne's County
Boat Shrinkwrap Recycling Program

QAC Shrink Wrap Recyling Program Overview
Purpose & Mission

As the weather warms up in Queen Anne’s County, the annual practice of removing the winterizing single-use boat shrinkwrap contributes to a significant amount of plastic waste ending up in landfills. With approximately 5,000 recreational boats in the county, and an estimated half using single-use shrinkwrap, this results in 30 tons of waste each year. As County Commissioner Phil Dumenil has stated, our county is blessed with natural beauty but is also entrusted with the responsibility of stewardship.

Program Partnership

In response to this environmental concern, Queen Anne’s County Government has joined forces with Plastic Free QAC and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) to tackle the issue and minimize the ecological impact of single-use boat shrinkwrap. By sponsoring and supporting the MTAM recycle bags, we empower residents to take an active role in safeguarding our waterways and minimizing the footprint of recreational boating. Together, we can make a lasting impact on our environment and set a precedent for communities across Maryland.

Focus Areas & Results

The initiative began by targeting local marinas, businesses, and residents, urging them to actively participate in reducing plastic waste. Last year, the initiative successfully recycling over 6 tons of plastic and diverting it from landfills.

Free Recycle Bag Availability

For individual boat owners, the free MTAM recycle bags will be available starting in early March at West Marine in Chester, and Rommel’s Ace Hardware in Stevensville. Get your FREE MTAM recycle bag at these locations, sponsored by the County Commissioners.

Shrink Wrap Preparation for Recycling

Shrinkwrap accepted for recycling must be cleaned of any zippers, windows, doors or ties and packaged in the provided MTAM recycle bags.

Shrink Wrap Drop-Off

Residents can drop off their cleaned shrinkwrap at no cost. Starting the first week of March, a dedicated dumpster for MTAM bagged shrinkwrap will be available at the Grasonville Transfer Station, located at 401 Gravel Run Road. The MTAM dumpster will be accessible until late May, providing a convenient and eco-friendly disposal option for boat owners.

Learn More

For more information, including locations to pick up the MTAM Recycle bags, where to bring them once they are ready to be recycled and the organizations involved, visit https://lnk.bio/RecycleBoatShrinkwrap

Shrinkwrap Recycling Process
Acquire Bag(s)
Clean & Bag
Dispose
Shrink Wrap Recycling Guidelines
Shrinkwrap Recycling FAQ's
Boat Shrinkwwrap Recycling's Role in Advancing Environmental Sustainability
In Queen Anne’s County, with over 5,000 registered recreational boats, approximately half utilize shrinkwrap for winterizing, which adds 30 tons of waste in landfills annually. The Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) has been combating this issue with a statewide boat shrinkwrap recycling program since 2019.
Why Recycle Boat Shrinkwrap in QAC?
Boat film doesn't decompose, leading to toxic fumes from landfills. Recycling reduces environmental impact, promotes sustainability, and conserves resources.
What Can be Recycled?
All cleaned and bagged shrinkwrap is recyclable. Remove straps, zippers, doors, and vents before placing it in the MTAM bag. https://youtu.be/920dFq3LNm4
What Happens to Bagged Wrap?
MTAM picks up bagged shrinkwrap, transporting it to a baling company. It's turned into "nurdles" or composite materials, used in various products like decking, lumber, and clothing.
Time Commitment for Recycling?
Bagging shrinkwrap efficiently takes only 10-15 minutes. MTAM's conveniently located dumpster in Grasonville saves time and travel costs.
Financial Benefits for Marinas?
Participating marinas save on storage, transportation, and disposal fees. Drop off MTAM bags filled with clean shrinkwrap at the Grasonville Transfer Station, eliminating landfill trips and reducing fuel costs.
How to Participate in the Shrinkwrap Recycling Program?
Recycling bags are free for QAC residents. Pick up bags West Marin in Chester and Rommel’s Ace Hardware.
Why is There Usually a Fee for Recycling Bags?
The $15/bag fee covers pickup, transportation, and recycling costs. There is no charge for QAC residents, sponsored by the County Commissioners Pick up your FREE bag.
Reducing Waste on Your Boat?
Minimize shrinkwrap use by properly storing and maintaining boat covers. Use reusable covers when possible. https://mtam.org/think-before-you-shrink/ Let's make a difference!
#ShrinkwrapRecycling #SustainableBoating #QACEnvironment
Joining Forces for Change
Queen Anne’s County Government, Plastic Free QAC, and MTAM are teaming up to minimize the ecological impact of single-use shrinkwrap.
How to Recycle Shrinkwrap?
Only clean shrinkwrap without zippers, windows, or ties can be recycled in provided MTAM bags. See the diagram below for details. Drop off your cleaned shrinkwrap at no cost.
Dumpster Availability
From the first week of March to end of May, a dedicated dumpster for MTAM bagged shrinkwrap will be at the Grasonville Transfer Station.
#PlasticFreeQAC #SustainableBoating #QueenAnnesCountyEnvironment
Let's Lead by Example
Together, we can make a lasting impact on our environment. Join us in setting a precedent for communities across Maryland.