A NEW field lab is exploring the possibility of using biodegradable twine to wrap hay bales rather than single-use plastic. 

Plastic net wrap is mainly used on farms across the UK, and according to the Soil Association, the UK produces an estimated 135,000 tonnes of agricultural plastic waste annually. 

The project is funded by Innovate Farmers, which is a not-for-profit network that gives farmers research support and funding. It is managed by the Soil Association. 

Innovative Farmers co-ordinator Laura Gude said: “We’re excited to see farmers take the lead on this research.

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“Plastic alternatives like sisal are not widely known – this could be a huge opportunity for livestock farmers.

“We hope this inspires others to try these nature-friendly methods, and would encourage any interested parties to follow the trial.”

A series of on farm trials are taking place across Scotland, Wales and England. Farmers are using twine made from sisal, a cactus-like plant. 

Field lab co-ordinator Stuart Oates farms cattle on Rosuick Organic Farm on Cornwall’s Lizard peninsula. He is taking part in the trials and is aiming to remove all plastics from his farm. 

He said: “Plastic net wrap is a nightmare material. It’s almost impossible to cut off without small pieces falling into the hay, which then spread into the environment and get eaten by our animals.

“This can build up quickly as we process thousands of bales a year.

“The effects of ingesting microplastics on animal and human health is only now starting to be understood, and none of it is good.

“Our early experiments have shown that sisal is incredibly strong and quick to process, so it’s a win for us and the environment.

“Small steps can lead to huge change – we want to see if this can be applied on a larger scale, so we’re encouraging farmers to join the trial and see how sisal can work for them.”

According to the trials, sisal requires few chemical inputs to grow, is easy to use in existing farm equipment and contains no toxic microplastics so can be safely composted.

The one-year trial will compare 5,000 bales, half using sisal twine and half in plastic net wrap, stored in barn conditions ranging from dry to exposed.

The bales will be lab-assessed next year in March and November for protein and sugar content, and to compare the dryness of the material under different conditions.

It is hoped sisal will keep the bales secure and dry, giving farmers a nature-friendly alternative that saves on vet bills and plastic tax.

Conor Kendrew, from Cornwall Wildlife Trust, added: “A successful trial means a strong business case for sisal.

“From there we can look at establishing economies of scale, cutting farm costs.

“If you’re a farmer using sisal, your research will support other farmers, helping re-build an industry around environmentally sound practices.”