New Scheme Launches to Tackle Farm Plastic Pollution in South Wales Rivers
A pioneering trial scheme aiming to reduce plastic pollution from farms has been launched in south Wales, targeting four of the region’s most ecologically significant rivers. The initiative, part of the Four Rivers for LIFE project, seeks to recycle an additional 200 tonnes of farm plastics, helping to protect wildlife and improve river health across the Teifi, Tywi, Cleddau and Usk catchments.
Led by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) in partnership with Agriculture Plastics Environment (APE), Birch Farm Plastics, and Afonydd Cymru, the project introduces ‘drop off centres’ where farmers and landowners can dispose of their agricultural plastics at a reduced cost. The scheme draws on successful models from across Europe and is designed to boost farm plastic recycling rates, which in the UK currently stand at just 20–30%—well below countries like Ireland (90%), France (80%) and Germany (65%).
Drop-off points will be available at livestock markets and other key locations including Talsarn near Lampeter, Crymych, Llandovery, Sennybridge, Raglan, and potentially Carmarthen. The aim is to make it easier and more affordable for farmers to recycle silage wrap and other plastic waste, which are known contributors to pollution and wildlife hazards in local rivers.
Chris Thomas, Senior Land Management Officer for Four Rivers for LIFE, highlighted the environmental urgency:
“Farm plastics have been found in the Teifi, Tywi and Cleddau rivers and contribute to the overall environmental issues affecting their health. Healthy rivers support more than just farmers and the environment – they also help communities thrive and grow.”
Farm plastic waste, including silage wrap, poses a serious risk to wildlife such as salmon, lamprey and otters, which are already under pressure. Plastic waste can create blockages, raise flood risk, and cause injury or death to fish, birds and amphibians.
A 2024 survey by the West Wales Rivers Trust found that cost is a major barrier preventing more farmers from recycling plastic waste. By reducing transportation costs through central drop-off points, the new scheme hopes to address this barrier. Cheryl Birch of Birch Farm Plastics explained:
“While we continue to collect directly from farms, increasing the number of drop-off centres helps us pass on savings to farmers and promote environmentally responsible disposal.”
The Teifi, Tywi, Cleddau and Usk Rivers are designated Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), recognised internationally for their rich biodiversity. Improving their condition is central to the goals of the Four Rivers for LIFE project, which is supported by the EU LIFE Programme, the Welsh Government, and Welsh Water.
Ian Creasey from APE added:
“Drop-off centres have proved successful in European markets, and we believe they can offer Welsh farmers a practical, cost-effective route to recycling farm plastics and protecting local rivers.”
Gail Davies-Walsh, Chief Executive of Afonydd Cymru, welcomed the scheme, noting its potential to deliver proven environmental benefits:
“This trial follows the success of a similar project led by West Wales Rivers Trust last year. We’re confident it will make a real difference in reducing agricultural plastic in rivers and supporting the health of these critical ecosystems.”
Farmers and landowners are encouraged to participate in the trial by bringing their used plastic to their nearest collection point.
For more information, including drop-off centre locations, visit: Four Rivers for LIFE – APE UK.