Government Approves National Recycling Scheme for Farm Plastics & Chemicals

Environment Minister Penny Simmonds has announced the approval of regulations establishing a unified product stewardship scheme for agrichemicals, their containers, and farm plastics.

New Zealand farmers and growers, long recognised as careful guardians of the land, will soon benefit from a new nationwide rural recycling system aimed at reducing waste and strengthening environmental stewardship. Environment Minister Penny Simmonds has announced the approval of regulations establishing a unified product stewardship scheme for agrichemicals, their containers, and farm plastics.

Simmonds says the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to “fixing the basics while building the future,” delivering practical tools that support farmers while safeguarding the natural environment. “This initiative is about fixing the basics while building the future with practical solutions that protect the environment, support our farmers, and ensure a productive, sustainable primary sector.”

A Unified National Framework for Rural Recycling

The industry-led programme brings together two long-standing voluntary schemes—Agrecovery and Plasback—into a single, streamlined nationwide system. Farmers and growers will now have free, simple, and accessible recycling and disposal services for a wide range of agrichemicals and farm plastics.

Following earlier consultation with strong support from rural communities, the approved regulations create a consistent product stewardship framework across the country. The system covers agrichemicals, chemical containers, silage wrap, bale wrap, crop protection plastics, and other commonly used farm materials.

Helping Farmers Reduce Waste and Improve Productivity

Farm plastics are essential to modern farming but can lead to significant waste challenges when not disposed of properly. Simmonds acknowledged that rural recycling infrastructure has been inconsistent for years, leaving farmers with limited options and sometimes turning to burning or burying plastics.

“This scheme offers a far better alternative,” she said. “Plastic containers, bags, and bale wrap can pile up, but this programme provides farmers with practical ways to reduce their environmental footprint and protect their land for future generations.”

Producers, manufacturers, retailers, and end-users will all share responsibility for managing the full lifecycle of farm plastics and agrichemicals—ensuring more sustainable production and less waste entering rural environments.

Benefits Extend Beyond the Primary Sector

While farmers and growers are central to the scheme, other sectors will also benefit. Forestry, manufacturing, hospitality, tourism, and local councils will gain access to nationwide take-back services, improving safe disposal options across the economy.

Industry groups have strongly endorsed the programme, citing its ability to reduce environmental risk, protect soil and water quality, and support cleaner, healthier rural communities.

Part of a Broader Waste Minimisation Framework

Agrichemicals, their containers, and farm plastics are one of six priority products required to have a stewardship scheme under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008. The new national framework strengthens compliance, increases recycling rates, and aligns New Zealand with international best practice for agricultural waste management.

With nearly two decades of voluntary recycling experience through Agrecovery and Plasback, the new scheme builds on a strong foundation—bringing consistency, scale, and long-term sustainability to rural waste reduction.

As implementation moves forward, farmers can expect expanded collection points, better access to recycling services, and more clarity around safe disposal requirements.