Nationally it is estimated over 100,000 tonnes for plastic is disposed of on farm every year. Less than 5% is thought to be recycled, mainly because farmers don’t have access to a recycling system.
That’s about to change in Wellington Shire next month!
Wellington, in conjunction with crop packaging specialist Tapex, are trialling a new farm plastics recycling initiative throughout September at the Kilmany and Yarram transfer stations.
Called the Plasback System, this initiative coordinates farmers, retailers, councils and industry groups to provide a sustainable disposal solution for plastic farm waste, instead of burning or burying it.
The Plasback System accepts twine, silage wrap and pit cover plastics. Each Plasback liner is coloured for a specific plastic waste stream. Green bags are for silage wrap and pit covers, red bags are for baling twine. Only plastics packed into the special Plasback bags will be accepted.
Shake the excess dirt and silage off the plastics you use between now and the end of next month, bag them in Plasback liners and drop them off at no cost at Kilmany or Yarram at any time during normal opening hours in September.
Wellington Shire Mayor, Councillor Jeff Amos says “Council hopes that the farming community gets behind this valuable new initiative.”
“The Plasback system is one which reflects the sustainable way Wellington Shire Council is encouraging the community to limit the amount of waste going to landfill or ending up being disposed of on private properties.
“We have been provided with feedback from our farming community that this initiative is one which will be well received and look forward to hearing positive results.”
Plasback bins and liners can be bought from your local Murray Goulburn Trading, BrownWigg and Elders stores. Check out www.plasback.com.au for your nearest outlet and drop point.
A box of 25 Plasback liners costs $79.95 and will recycle the plastic off 400 round bales of silage.
A pay per pick up Plasback farm gate collection service is also beginning in the Macalister Irrigation District. Contact Mally from Maffra Waste on 0428517376 to find out more.
The aim of Plasback is to change existing unsustainable disposal practices by giving farmers a cost effective, viable alternative for recycling. To find out more about recycling your plastic go to www.plasback.com.au or telephone Wellington Shire Council on 1300 366 244.
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