NFU Scotland boost recycling

Farmers in the Borders and Ayrshire will soon be able to gain access to better recycling facilities with centralised farm plastic collections days organised at local marts due to take place later this month.

With a ban on burning farm plastics in force since January 2019, farmers are now required to dispose of their waste in other ways, primarily through recycling – but costs and availability vary widely.

But in a new venture, NFU Scotland has joined Solway Recycling, Craig Wilson Ltd and Harrison & Hetherington marts to make the process of disposing of farm waste easier and more cost-effective.

Solway Recycling are running two farm plastic collection days, one at St Boswells market (Tuesday 20 July from 10am to noon) and Ayr market (Friday 30 July from 9.3011.30am) where farmers can drop off their plastic waste and avoid having to arrange on-farm collection – which can be expensive.

Pre-booking with Solway is essential to ensure compliance with Covid-19 restrictions and the company can also provide details on pricing and how different types of farm plastics can be packed appropriately.

“Disposal and recycling of farm plastics since the ban came into force has been a challenge for farmers in the Borders,” said the union’s Lothian and Borders regional manager Lindsay Brown.

“We are delighted to announce our first collection day at St Boswells on 20 July and we look forward to working with our members, Solway Recycling and Harrison & Hetherington to provide a costeffective collection service for this material.”