- Mater-Bi mulch film is certified under EU Fertilizer Regulation 2019/1009.
- The film is biodegradable and does not require separate disposal.
- Global agricultural plastic consumption exceeds 12.5 million tonnes, with 20% as mulch film.
- Only 24% of agricultural plastic waste is recycled in Europe.
Certification and Compliance
Novamont's Mater-Bi mulch film has received certification under the EU Fertilizer Regulation 2019/1009. This certification confirms the film's classification as an inorganic soil improver, designed to enhance soil properties without requiring separate disposal.
Environmental Impact
The Mater-Bi film is biodegradable, does not accumulate in soil, and avoids releasing persistent microplastics. It meets the criteria set by Delegated Act 2024/2787, which assesses biodegradability and ecotoxicity of polymers in mulch films.
Agricultural Plastic Waste
Global agricultural plastic consumption exceeds 12.5 million tonnes, with nearly 20% attributed to mulch film. In Europe, only 24% of agricultural plastic waste is recycled, with soil contamination being a major barrier to higher recycling rates.
Soil Health Concerns
The collection of mulch film results in the removal of approximately 166,000 tonnes of soil annually, contributing to the loss of soil organic carbon, a vital component of soil health. The European Soil Monitoring Directive aims to address these issues by monitoring and protecting soil health across the continent.
