Plasback leading the way in agri plastic recycling

Plasback continues to lead the charge in New Zealand’s agricultural recycling space, achieving a record-breaking milestone in 2024 with 6800 tonnes of farm plastics collected and diverted from burying or burning practices.

“This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability and our strong partnerships with farmers who share our vision for a cleaner, greener future,” says commercial manager Neal Shaw.

“As we move into 2025, Plasback remains focused on broadening awareness of the importance of recycling in the agricultural sector.” 

Shaw says the organisation’s collection scheme will continue to grow, providing farmers with an efficient and reliable system to recycle clean, acceptable products while reducing on-farm waste.

A key focus for 2025 is educating the agricultural community on reducing contamination levels in recycled materials. 

“By emphasizing the need for clean plastics in recycling bins, we aim to improve the efficiency of the recycling process, ensuring a higher-quality end product and a more sustainable outcome for all.”

Even small amounts of other materials can interfere with the process, and Shaw says the Plasback team has seen tractor parts, old tyres, fenceposts and animal carcasses turn up. 

“This means that plastic can’t be recovered, and if it gets into our recycling facilities, it seriously interferes in the process.”

Shaw is proud that everything collected is recycled, with the bins and liners themselves fabricated in Auckland from recycled plastic. 

There’s more, with Plasback offering a range of products under its ‘Tuff’ brand – culvert pipes, board in various thicknesses, pest control systems, and decking – all made from reclaimed farm plastic.

The success of Tuff Solutions has been significant, with many of these products now being installed into farm sheds, dairies, and walkways throughout rural communities. 

This not only provides farmers with durable, sustainable alternatives to traditional materials but also ensures that waste plastics are reintegrated into practical and valuable uses. 

By promoting these recycled products, Plasback is contributing to a full circular economy, where farm plastics are not just collected and processed but are transformed into long-lasting solutions that benefit the agricultural sector.

Shaw notes that farmers are generally great stewards of the land, but there is always more to be done. 

“Plasback is proud to support NZ’s farmers as they adopt better recycling practices, and we thank everyone who has contributed to this year’s incredible milestone. Together, we can build a sustainable future for our industry.”

For more information or to get started with Plasback’s on-farm recycling system, visit www.plasback.co.nz.