Kuhn Farm Machinery is the first manufacturer to partner with Agriculture Plastics Environment UK (APE UK) to support the management of agricultural plastics and improve recycling.
APE UK is a non-profit focused on improving the management of plastics by engaging with farmers as well as the wider supply chain and industry.
Ian Creasey, APE UK’s CEO, says the goal is for industry-wide collaboration. “Less than 30% of used agri-plastics are recycled in the UK, and APE UK’s objective is to build a national plastics recovery and collection scheme to increase this to 75% within five years. We are engaging with the farming sector and government to incentivise agri-plastics recycling and support the development of cost-effective recycling services for farmers and growers. As an industry, we can’t continue to ignore the impact managing plastic waste incorrectly has on the environment.”
Kuhn has already taken steps to limit waste plastic, offering film binding on standard and combination balers. Reducing the amount of waste on farm and the time required to sort it.
Grassland product specialist, Rhodri Jenkins, says the company is committed to making the recycling process easier for farmers. “Our wide product portfolio means users are handling plastics daily, whether that’s chemical cans, baler twine or bale wrap. If we can help promote more efficient and cost-effective ways to manage these waste products off-farm, then we can start to make the current problem part of the solution.”
He continues: “Through innovative technology, such as our 750mm stretch-film rolls that have a much higher pre-stretch ratio compared with wider conventional rolls, we can cut film costs by up to 37%. This has a value to the farmer at both ends of the chain as it is more cost-effective to buy and there is less waste to dispose of.”
APE UK has already partnered with agri-plastic producers, as well as distributors including Carrs Billington, Mole Valley and Wynnstay.