Coffee Bags Trash Coffee bags should be placed in the trash, because they are comprised of plastic and aluminum foil glued together. Select recyclable packaging when shopping for coffee like tin cans, glass jars, or plastic tubs. Better yet, bring your own container to buy your beans in bulk. Many stores have a robust selection of loose beans, so you can still enjoy your cup o’ joe with less waste. Most stores allow you to grind your bulk bought beans on site. Recycle Paper Bags Only If your coffee bag is made only of paper, it can be recycled. If it is paper coated with a thin plastic film, like coffee cups are, it cannot be recycled because the mixed materials cannot be separated. Coffee bags made of plastic also cannot be recycled. Ways to Reduce Buy Coffee in Bulk Instead of buying single bags of coffee, buy coffee beans from the bulk section of your supermarket. Bring an empty coffee bag or jar into the store for your coffee instead of using a brand new container every time. Ways to Reuse Upcycle Your Coffee Bag You can turn a plastic coffee bag into a planter or vase, or you can turn several into a reusable tote bag.