An industry-led initiative will bring the existing programmes into one national rural recycling system. The scheme will unite the Agrecovery and Plasback programmes to offer a free-to-use, accessible service for all users of in-scope agrichemicals and farm plastics.
This includes agrichemicals and their containers and drums, bale wrap and silage film, small bags used for agricultural products, and bulk woven polypropylene bags.
Senior science advisor for hazardous substances and waste at Environment Canterbury, Jack Grinstead, says several positives come from this merger.
“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.”
He says that the new recycling process should be less confusing for farmers. The move from voluntary to mandatory product stewardship means materials within the programme’s scope must have the cost of managing their life cycle included in their 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 manage products when they’ve reached the end of their life.”
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 our 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.”
Simmonds says that the move won’t just benefit farmers: forestry, manufacturing, hospitality, tourism and local authorities will also have access to national take-back services, making safe disposal easier for all New Zealanders.
“Key industry stakeholders support the scheme because it offers a better alternative to burning or burying plastics, reducing environmental risk and supporting cleaner, safer rural communities.”
SPONSORED
