Shrink wrap, a low-density polyethylene material, is one of the more effective ways to protect boats from the ravages of the winter months. It can, however, be used only once, so every spring, there are tons of it–literally–waiting for disposal. (Rhode Island, for instance, disposes of more than 100 tons of shrink wrap annually.) The problem is, the stuff isn't biodegradable, so landfills are a poor option. It's also bulky and difficult to compact.

Many marinas now offer shrink wrap recycling programs. If yours does not, you might ask them or perhaps a local marine trade organization to set one up.

There are also companies that provide the service for a nominal fee. One of the first was Dr. Shrink, Inc., which provides a 30 x 50 bag with printed directions, a prepaid UPS label and a closure device. Each bag holds up to 600 square feet of shrink wrap, the quantity needed for a boat of up to 26 feet. Larger boats, of course, will require more than one bag.

More recently, regions and even states with large numbers of boaters are getting in on the recycling action.

– Linda Hoff