The "Plasback" scheme for recycling silage wrap and baling twine is no longer operating. At present there is no system in place for recovering and recycling these plastic wastes so disposal to landfill is the preferred option. Burning plastics on farm is not permitted because of the toxic materials produced, particularly dioxins and furans which are hormone-disrupting, cancer-causing substances that build up in water, soil, crops, humans and livestock. The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) may issue fines to farmers for incinerating plastic waste.
~ update issued 20 March 2019.