Aarau, March 2025 – ERDE Switzerland has once again achieved great success in 2024: A total of 2,500 tonnes of agricultural plastics were collected – almost 15% more than the previous year. This once again confirms the growing commitment of all stakeholders to sustainable agriculture and efficient recycling.

Sustainability through collaboration

Silage stretch films, silage flat films, and baling twine – every year, large amounts of agricultural plastics are generated in agriculture. The voluntary take-back system ERDE Switzerland, in collaboration with RIGK as the system operator, ensures that these valuable raw materials are collected, recycled, and returned to the circular economy. This not only protects the environment but also reduces CO₂ emissions.

Expansion of the collection point network

Thanks to the continuous expansion of the collection point network, more than 120 collection points were activated across Switzerland in 2024, especially in Western Switzerland and Ticino. The network continues to grow steadily – and practically: Agricultural businesses can even set up their own collection points if the nearest one is too far away.

„For the collection of agricultural plastics to work, sufficient collection points are needed. It's great to see how the network is growing and how all stakeholders are taking responsibility to keep raw materials in the circular economy,,

says Riccardo Casanova, Managing Director of ERDE Switzerland.

Opportunities for participation

If a collection point is missing nearby, agricultural businesses can also take action themselves – whether with a temporary or permanent collection point. Interested parties can easily contact info(at)erde-schweiz.ch to make the return of agricultural plastics even easier.

Certified recycling for greater transparency

All collected materials are recycled in Switzerland and in certified EU facilities. Independent auditors confirm proper collection and recycling, ensuring all stakeholders that the recycling process meets the highest standards.

There’s Still Plenty of Potential

Currently, only about a third of used silage films are recycled in Switzerland – so the potential is still enormous! ERDE Switzerland and RIGK continue to work towards ensuring that more agricultural businesses return their agricultural plastics, actively contributing to environmental protection.

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