Boat Shrink Wrap: Out of Storage, Into Recycling

March 24, 2026| Community, Environment, Events

By: Kyle Richter

Spring has arrived, and with it comes the excitement of getting back out on the water. As you start preparing your boat for the season ahead, you’ll likely be removing last year’s shrink wrap. Instead of throwing it away, consider recycling it—it’s an easy step that makes a real difference.

Why Recycle Boat Shrink Wrap?

Boat shrink wrap is a recyclable plastic that can be turned into new items like bags, composite decking, and even more shrink wrap. Too often, though, it ends up in landfills where it takes up space and contributes to environmental pollution. By recycling, you help conserve resources and keep plastic out of our waterways.

Last year alone, 22+ tons of boat shrink wrap were collected and recycled across Morris and Sussex Counties. That's a significant amount of waste kept out of landfills and a great example of what's possible when the community works together. Let’s keep that momentum going!

Free recycling is being offered again this season through a partnership with the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority, Sussex County Municipal Utilities Authority, Roxbury Clean Communities, and Jefferson Township, in collaboration with UltraPoly, a Pennsylvania-based recycler.

Boaters can bring their properly prepared shrink wrap for recycling to the Jefferson Township Health Center, 57 Minnisink Road, Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, on May 2, from 9 am to 1 pm.

How to Prepare Your Shrink Wrap for Recycling

Getting your shrink wrap ready is simple:

• 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 dirt, leaves, and any other residue to the best of your ability.
• Bundle it up – Fold or roll the shrink wrap into a manageable size.
• Drop it off – Bring it for recycling on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 9 am to 1 pm at the Jefferson Township Health Center, 57 Minnisink Road, Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey

Recycling your shrink wrap is a simple action with meaningful impact, keeping plastic out of the environment and reducing waste. Spread the word to fellow boaters and be part of this sustainability effort this season. Happy boating!