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Plastic Trash Bags

Last Updated: 10/31/24
Plastic Trash Bags

Plastic trash bags, also called trash can liners, are widely available with recovered material content including HDPE, LDPE and LLDPE. The amount of recovered materials used in the manufacturing process is prescribed by the color, size and thickness of the bag. Examples include trash bags, can liners, and pet waste bags. This category does not include compost bags, yard waste bags, product packaging, disposable containers, or semi-durable and non-durable films.

Product Details

To the maximum extent practicable, federal agencies are required to buy sustainable products, which are products that meet the purchasing program(s) listed below.

If there is more than one program listed below, agencies are directed to prioritize multi-attribute products, which meet statutory purchasing program requirements (asterisk) and one or more required Environmental Protection Agency purchasing programs.

Review our frequently asked questions for more information.

Procurement Info

Where to Buy

  • Statutory Purchasing Program Requirements:
  • CPG CPG opens in new window asterisk
  • (10-100% postconsumer plastic)

  • USDA BioPreferred® Program USDA BioPreferred® Program opens in new window asterisk
  • (22% minimum biobased content)
  • Note. In instances when federal agencies must choose between an item that is CPG and an item that is USDA BioPreferred, and both items meet the agency's needs, federal agencies are directed to procure the CPG item in accordance with FAR 23.104(c)(1)opens in new window.

  • Required EPA Purchasing Programs:
  • For trash bags 24" x 33" or smaller:
  • Ecologo/UL 126 Ecologo/UL 126 opens in new window
  • (≥ 20% post-consumer recycled content)

  • Please go to EPA’s Recommendationsopens in new window website for additional information on preferences within these standards.
  • Looking for compostable bags? See Bags & Liners for Compostable Organic Materials.
Guiding Principles
Contributes to meeting The Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings