Trash bag color code in Panama

The trash bag color code helps separate waste by type and makes recycling easier. In general terms: the black bag is for common waste, green for glass or organics, yellow for plastics and packaging, and red for hazardous or special-care waste.

What each bag color means

• Black — Common waste: non-recyclable, non-hazardous household trash, dirty paper and sweepings.
• Green — Glass & organics: glass or organic waste (food scraps, peels, garden waste), depending on the local system.
• Yellow — Plastics & packaging: recyclable materials such as plastic bottles, packaging, cans and cartons.
• Red — Hazardous waste: items needing special care: medical waste, biological material, batteries or chemicals.

Note: the exact meaning of each color can vary by institution, municipality or company. What matters is keeping a consistent system.

Why separate waste by color

Separating waste at the source is the first step of the circular economy. When recyclables are not mixed with common trash, they are much easier to recover and turn into new products, reducing landfill waste and the carbon footprint.

Colored bags made in Panama

At Ecoplásticos Panamá we make trash bags in black, green, yellow and red, in different sizes and gauges, from recycled post-consumer and post-industrial plastic. Not sure which to choose? Read our guide to choosing trash bags.

Frequently asked questions

What color is the bag for common trash?

The black bag is used for common waste that is neither recyclable nor hazardous, such as general household trash.

What is the red bag for?

The red bag is reserved for hazardous or special-care waste, such as medical waste, biological material, batteries or chemicals.

Where can I buy colored trash bags in Panama?

At Ecoplásticos Panamá we make and sell recycled, durable bags in four colors. Request a quote on WhatsApp at +(507) 6446-1818.