A new national recycling system for farm plastics
The future of on-farm waste management is looking brighter thanks to a new nationwide rural recycling scheme covering agrichemicals and farm plastics.
The industry-led scheme will unite the Agrecovery and Plasback programmes into a single national system, offering free-to-use, simple, and accessible services for all users of in-scope agrichemicals and farm plastics. Materials covered by the scheme include:
- agrichemicals and their containers and drums
- bale wrap and silage film
- small bags used for agricultural products
- bulk woven polypropylene bags.
Why the change matters
“There are a number of positives to come out of this move,” says Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) Senior Science Advisor, Hazardous Substances and Waste Jack Grinsted,
“The burning and burial of farm plastics, for example, are an ongoing issue that can have lasting environmental impacts. By making the recycling of these materials free and accessible, you’re removing the barriers to doing the right thing.
“In addition, Agrecovery and Plasback working closely together to provide a single, nationally consistent recycling service for farmers makes the recycling process less confusing.”
The change from voluntary to mandatory product stewardship means the within-scope materials must have the cost of managing their life cycle included in the purchase price.
“When product stewardship is voluntary, some producers and suppliers can opt not to participate. Regulation means that the provider of the resource recovery will have certainty for investing into the infrastructure and services required to manageproducts when they’ve reached the end of their life.”
Rural support for the initiative
Minister for the Environment Penny Simmonds said the initiative is about fixing the basics while building the future with practical solutions that protect the environment, support farmers, and ensure a productive, sustainable primary sector.
“We consulted on these regulations earlier this year and received strong support from the rural sector. Farmers and growers have been working towards this for a long time.”
Learn more: Check what applies to you and find full details about the regulations and recycling options on the Agrecovery’s website.