Recycling collections at St Boswells (20 July) and Ayr (30 July)

Farmers in the Borders and Ayrshire can make use of farm plastic collections days organised at local marts this month.

From 1 January 2019, there has been a total ban on the burning of plastics on farm and farmers are now required to dispose of their waste in other ways, primarily through recycling. However, costs and availability are specific to each company and can vary across the country.

NFU Scotland has partnered with Solway Recycling, Craig Wilson Ltd and Harrison & Hetherington to make the process of disposing of farm waste as easy and cost-effective for our members as possible.

Solway Recycling are running two farm plastic collection days at St Boswells market (Tuesday 20 July from 10.00am to 12.00 noon) and Ayr market (Friday 30 July from 9.30am to 11.30am) where farmers can drop off their plastic waste and avoid having to arrange on-farm collection – which can be expensive for many farmers.

Pre-booking is essential to ensure compliance with COVID-19 restrictions and interested farmers are asked to call Solway Recycling on 01387 730666 to book your slot.  The company can also provide details on pricing and how different types of farm plastics can be packed appropriately.

The centralised collection points in St Boswells and Ayr have come after a successful pilot at the Ayr market in 2019.

Ayrshire Regional Manager, Christine Cuthbertson, said: “It’s great to see the waste farm plastic collection service go from strength to strength and see new venues coming on board!

“We started with a pilot collection at Ayr Market back in October 2019 as new regulations banned on farm disposal.  We wanted to provide an easy and compliant way for farmers in Ayrshire to get rid of their waste plastics. It has been great to work in partnership with Solway Recycling and Craig Wilson to provide this very accessible service and we are sure people will again take advantage of it when it returns on 30 July.”

Lothian and Borders Regional Manager Lindsay Brown added: “Disposal and recycling of farm plastics since the ban came into force has been a challenge for farmers in the Borders.  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 cost-effective collection service for this material.”  

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Contact Bob Carruth on 07788 927675