The San Diego Union-Tribune's Web site has a story today about the city of Solana Beach, Calif., linking up with Trex Co. Inc. to recycle plastic bags.

This is an unusual step, for a community to make a deal directly with a manufacturer like Trex. Kyle Pogue, a supervisor at the California Integrated Waste Management Board, told the newspaper that Solana Beach could serve as a model for other cities.

The idea came from Debbie Sandler, described as a stay-at-home mom involved in school recycling efforts.

The story also notes that Solana Beach has a reputation for embracing environmental initiatives.

Trex is a major recycler, using waste film and other materials to make decking. A Washington Post story recently noted that the company boosted its profit last quarter thanks to "improving productivity and buying lower-quality recycled plastics."