Plastics can be used more sustainably in agriculture

Abstract Plastics have become an integral component in agricultural production as mulch films, nets, storage bins and in many other applications, but their widespread use has led to the accumulation of large quantities in soils. Rational use and reduction, collection, reuse, and innovative recycling are key measures to curb plastic pollution from agriculture. Plastics that cannot be collected after use must be biodegradable in an environmentally benign manner. Harmful plastic additives must be replaced with safer alternatives to reduce toxicity burdens and included in the ongoing negotiations surrounding the United Nations Plastics Treaty. Although full substitution of plastics is currently not possible…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Award: 2152514
• UD
  U.S. Department of Agriculture
• MU
  McGill University
• SN
  Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung

  Award: PCEFP2_186856
• UW
  Universität Wien
• TI
  Trottier Institute for Sustainability in Engineering and Design