Can we recycle Silostop with other Silage Films?

Can we recycle Silostop with other Silage Films?

This is becoming a frequently asked question – and the answer is YES!

The critical point is the level of EVOH (the Oxygen Barrier bit) in the film, ours is under the threshold which means our films can be recycled with all your other standard Polyethylene film.

More than anyone, farmers understand how important it is to take care of the environment in which we work and live.

Farmers and contractors are looking for opportunities to improve their environmental credentials, but at the same time, they must balance their concern for the environment with ensuring that any crops ensiled will not be spoilt. Inadequate protection could result in significant waste being generated. Silostop products offer several ways in which farmers and contractors can protect their crops without compromising on quality.

Quality is key, also when it comes to sustainability. Choosing high quality films not only prevent silage losses, but also results in less film being thrown away.

Used silage films should not go to waste as they can be recycled to manufacture items such as damp proof membranes and refuse sacks amongst other things. Recycling schemes now exist is most countries for reprocessing agricultural films and it is important (and more cost-effective) to ensure that films are prepared properly for collection by a registered waste management company.

max on shoulders

Here are a few tips:

1. Minimize plastic waste. Reduce waste by purchasing the right size silage cover for your needs.

2. Remove the plastic film from silos frequently. Removing less than three days’ accumulation of top silage film at a time maximizes silage protection and keeps the size of plastic sheets small enough to be easily handled.

3. Keep stored plastic dry and secure it to minimize blowing. Shake dirty plastic to remove soil and debris. Then bundle it by rolling it or tying it with a strip of sheet plastic or plastic baler twine. Do not use non-plastic twine or place unbundled plastic loose in a storage area. While placing plastic on the ground is common, it requires extra labour later to load the pile for transport. A hayrack or trailer can provide convenient storage and eliminate re-handling. If the pile is stored outside, cover it with a weighted top sheet to keep it dry and protect it from blowing. A number of low-cost plastic containment pens can be constructed using plastic fencing or hurdles.

4. Transport the plastic to a collection centre. Use a trailer, horse box, farm truck, or wagon to haul the plastic to the recycling collection centre. Secure the plastic to prevent blowing. Large vehicles with densely-packed plastic provide the most efficient transportation.

plastic for recycling

For your interest our products fall into the following recycling categories:

plastic recycling categories

Here are some links to plastic recycling schemes:

Farm Plastic Recycling - The Green Tractor Scheme

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