Dear all,
attached is our contribution to the consultation.
It is a focus group report conducted by the Department of Management - University of Bologna (Italy) in May 2023 on a specific topic which is the use of bio-based and biodegradable plastics in agricultural mulch film.
The focus group is part of the H2020 BIO-PLASTICS EUROPE project. It was joined by top players and key experts in the agriculture value chain.
In line with the aim of the Code of Conduct, the focus group, in the form of a multi-stakeholder dialogue, addressed the key crucial points affecting the use of plastics in the agriculture sector.
Among the priorities, the most compelling are: 1. To increase farmers’ awareness about the impact of certain practices on the soil and human health 2. To define applications and contexts where conventional mulch films are still a valid option, provided that removal, collection and recycling are ensured 3. To invest in R&D to improve the technical characteristics of biodegradable mulch films 4. To introduce guidelines for better removal of conventional mulch films from soils 5. To establish mandatory or voluntary Extended Producer Responsibility schemes in each EU country.
Kindest regards,
Eleonora Foschi
Dr. Eleonora Foschi