Issued by 2026 Magazine

Making circularity work on the ground – A practical case from the ERDE system

Collection Schemes

Author : Boris EMMEL, System Manager, ERDE

Managing agricultural plastics remains a practical challenge across Europe. Materials such as silage and stretch films, nets and twines are essential for modern farming, yet their collection and recycling often depend on well-functioning local structures. Practical examples therefore provide valuable insight into what enables circularity “on the ground”. Let’s see a concrete example from the ERDE Scheme in Germany.

The German ERDE initiative (Erntekunststoffe Recycling DEutschland)1 is a nationwide recovery and recycling system for agricultural plastics. ERDE is organised under the umbrella of the IK Industrial Association for Plastic Packaging and managed by RIGK. It is a voluntary, industry-led scheme that combines manufacturer financing with decentralised collection structures and established recycling pathways. Its effectiveness becomes particularly visible at local level.

A practical case: collection organised through contractors

A visit to the contracting company Stolte in Willebadessen (Germany) illustrates how the system works in practice. On collection days, farmers deliver used agricultural plastics – such as silage and stretch films or nets – already sorted by material type. On site, the materials are received, consolidated and prepared for transport to recycling facilities.

Contractors play a central operational role. They organise collection points, coordinate logistics and communicate directly with farmers. Their understanding of everyday agricultural practice enables efficient organisation and high participation rates. Cooperation with contractor networks, such as the German Association of Agricultural Contractors (BLU), further strengthens this approach by embedding collection activities within existing agricultural structures.

ERDE visits the Contracting Service Provider Stolte Peckelsheim in Willebadessen (© RIGK)

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