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Sustainable boating

Recycling options

Shrink-wrap recycling

Turn your boat shrink-wrap into something new, such as composite decking. The Michigan Recycling Coalition has developed a program in partnership with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to recycle high and low density polyethylene film plastics from Michigan's marinas:

  1. Complete and submit the registration form.
  2. Purchase your recycling bag(s) for a one-time fee of $9.
  3. Remove shrink-wrap, place in the bag and deliver to the nearest registered drop-off location (marina, storage, or recycling facility).

Learn steps to recycle your shrink-wrap »

Fishing line recycling

The DNR is rolling out fishing line recycling tubes this summer and fall (with many in Southern Michigan already in place) at every harbor, boating access site and fishing pier throughout the state's parks and recreation system. These recycling tubes will help protect aquatic wildlife from the dangers of eating or getting tangled in fishing line and other fishing tackle. It also helps protect boat propellers. The collected fishing line is ultimately sent to Berkley Conservation to be recycled at no cost.

Watch "Why You Should Recycle Your Fishing Line" video

Thanks to Michigan Cares for Tourism volunteers who helped build the tubes, and the thousands of campers and boaters who gave an additional $2 when making their camping or boating reservation.

Fiberglass boat recycling

Mention “recycling” and most people think of aluminum cans, newspapers and other everyday items, but a team of industry professionals are working on a solution to the global challenge of fiberglass recycling in Michigan.

Want to help? We need to hear from you – boater and boat holders – on what you feel is the best way to fund this initiative with a quick online survey. It should take less than five minutes. 

Take online survey »