preprints.org > environmental and earth sciences > waste management and disposal > doi: 10.20944/preprints202310.1732.v1

Preprint Article Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Version 1 : Received: 26 October 2023 / Approved: 26 October 2023 / Online: 26 October 2023 (16:14:18 CEST)

The use of plastic in agriculture has become so omnipresent within the industry that it has acquired it own lexicon to become known as ‘plasticulture’. However, since, compared to other industries the quantities consumed are low, little attention is granted to this waste stream. This is the case both with local and international policies even though it bears a close connection to soil health and therefore is a prerequisite to improve the sustainability of food production processes including food security. Using Malta as a case study, the research utilises quantitative and qualitative tools to identify and quantify the most common types of agricultural plastic waste generated and determines the attitudes of farmers towards a collection and recycling scheme. While it identifies that incineration and ploughing of plastic waste as regular practices, it also ascertains the willingness of farmers to acquire more knowledge about more appropriate methods to dispose of this waste stream thus guiding policy makers towards the need to initiate educational measures for farmers to prevent these harmful practices. Through stakeholder interviews the research highlights that the present lack of data is a major hindrance for policy to take account of this waste stream.

agricultural plastic waste; disposal practices; extended producer responsibility; collection schemes; sustainable food production

Environmental and Earth Sciences, Waste Management and Disposal

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