A new life for bale twine

A RECYCLING solution for synthetic bale twine has been developed by researchers from La Trobe University, Bendigo.

Agricultural industries use millions of kilometres of twine every year with most ending up in landfill or burned on farms.

With partner company Ritchie Technology, researchers have created a closed-loop recycling system and cost-effective melting machine.

“We successfully demonstrated that bale twine can be efficiently melted and reformed into useful, durable products such as garden planters, outdoor furniture and construction materials like decking or fence posts,” said lead researcher, Associate Professor Ing Kong.

“Not only does this work provide an environmentally friendly solution for reducing agricultural plastic waste, but it highlights opportunities to build a sustainable circular economy in Victoria.

“Beyond its direct environmental impact, it could potentially influence industrial practices by providing scalable, low-cost recycling solutions.”

The Rtec melting machine is designed for on-farm use and is both compact and affordable.

Richie Technology founder and CEO Dr William Richie said the product was a “triple win” for the agricultural sector, the environment and the economy.

“This new technology offers a cost-effective economic and environmental solution to tackle mounting piles of agricultural plastic waste,” Dr Richie said.

“It will give farmers the tools to reduce their ecological footprint, cut their waste disposal costs, while offering the added benefit of potentially selling recycled plastic material back to manufacturers.”

The project was supported by a $145,000 grant from the State Government’s Circular Economy Markets Fund via Sustainability Victoria.

It is hoped the initiative will be used in the future for a range of plastic waste applications, leading to both environmental and economic benefits.