Abstract: This invention provides a method and apparatus for treating photographic film to recover silver and the plastic base layer for re-use. A wash tank containing warm water at about neutral pH contains at least one enzyme from the following group: protease, amylase, lipase. The water in the wash tank is agitated and the enzymes attack the adhesive and organic layers on the plastic base, in order to loosen and remove these materials. The film is then placed in a rinse tank containing either a weak aqueous glycol solution or a weak caustic solution which is agitated. Finally the film is removed from the rinse tank and dried. Liquid is removed from the wash tank and treated to remove silver therefrom.