Disposal of agricultural plastics

Independent researchers would like to talk to farmers to understand current perceptions and practises around disposal of agricultural plastics, with the aim to develop solutions to make the process easier for them.
First published on 12 Oct 2021.

Independent research agency Kantar Public have been hired by Defra and the Environment Agency to run a research project that works in collaboration with farmers and other industry stakeholders including waste collectors, manufacturers, re-processors, farm assurance schemes, the NFU, FWAG and CLA. The aim of the project is to identify and develop potential interventions (for example a good waste management guide) that can make it easier for agricultural plastics to be disposed of.

Discussions can be arranged to suit farmer preferences and can be either online, by telephone, or researchers can also visit farms if welcome. They will be taking place in October and November, but exact dates and times can be agreed to best suit each participant.

Kantar are particularly interested in hearing from livestock and arable farmers who use silage wrap and other plastic films but perspectives from different types of farms, who may use other forms of plastic, are very welcome.

The project focuses on farms in the southern regions of England (from Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly to Kent and up into East Anglia) however if there are willing farmers outside of these areas, they would be happy to speak to you.

If you are keen to help, please contact Maria Gaffario at Kantar Maria.Gafforio@kantar.com or 07951 890318

Please note that this is a collaborative project, and all discussions will be anonymous.