NFU Scotland is highlighting the alternatives to burning farm plastics come 1 January 2019

From 1 January 2019 there will be a total ban on the burning of plastics on farms and crofts in Scotland which means farmers and crofters need to start looking at alternative methods of disposal.

Following the announcement there were a number of concerns raised by NFU Scotland members over the cost to their businesses and access to economical means of disposal, to which NFU Scotland acted swiftly and effectively by organising a meeting with representatives from the waste and recycling industry.

The Union has also produced an in-depth Business Guide Update which includes information on the changes, alternative options, the key points on recycling and an extensive list of specialist recycling contractors.

The rule changes bring Scotland in line with the rest of the UK, which has had an overall ban of burning plastics on farm for a number of years.

NFU Scotland President Andrew McCornick said: “We understand this will be an unwelcome expense and inconvenience for a number of our members, many of whom are in extremely remote regions and islands and feel they will struggle to find affordable alternatives.

“As a Union we have been on the front foot on this every step of the way and have produced extensive materials for our members to best prepare them for the imminent ban.

“NFU Scotland staff and officeholders have maintained a constant dialogue with Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the waste industry to ensure our members are fully prepared for the changes come 1 January.

“Any member who is unsure about how to find or contact the relevant contractors for legally disposing of farm plastics can find comprehensive guidance and a list of contractors on our Business Guide Update on our website. Alternatively, if any member is still unsure about their responsibilities, they are encouraged to contact their regional manager or NFU Scotland head office for advice.”

Notes to Editor

• NFU Scotland’s Business Guide Update can be found at https://www.nfus.org.uk/nfuscontent/business-guides/17477/farm-plastic-recycling
• The list of recycling service specialist contractors can be found at https://www.nfus.org.uk/userfiles/images/Business%20Guide/BGU%2034-18%20APPENDIX%201.pdf
  

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Contact Douglas Ross on 0131 472 4059