The views of rural New Zealanders are being called for on proposed regulations to improve the management of farm plastic waste.
Environment Minister Penny Simmonds said the proposal was an industry-led initiative and would bring the existing Agrecovery and Plasback programmes into a single national recycling system, making services simpler and more accessible for all users of regulated farm plastics.
The proposed regulations would support a nationally consistent product stewardship scheme for agrichemicals, their containers, and farm plastics, helping farmers and growers reduce their environmental impact while maintaining productivity, Ms Simmonds said.
"These regulations will provide a unified system where producers, sellers, and users take responsibility for the entire product life cycle, from design to disposal."
The programme would ensure farmers had access to free-to-use drop-off sites and collection services while working alongside regulations for producers and importers.
"Key industry stakeholders back the scheme, which offers a better alternative to burning or burying plastic waste on farms.
"Rural communities want a simple, effective system, and we welcome feedback to refine the proposed regulations,"
Public consultation opened this month and will run until June 1.
Submissions can be made via the ministry’s website.
