ERDE starts the 2025 collection campaign – circular economy in agriculture continues on a growth path

After a successful 2024, the ERDE initiative continues its mission: collecting more agricultural plastics, saving more CO₂, and further expanding the circular economy in agriculture. With nearly 700 collection points and over 150 collection partners, the system is growing continuously – not only in Germany but also in Switzerland, where progress is being made. ERDE is very grateful for the collaboration so far and looks forward to taking the next step toward sustainable agriculture together with all participating manufacturers, agricultural businesses, collection partners, and other stakeholders.

A strong 2024 as the foundation for the future
In the past year, ERDE made significant progress:

• Renewal of the voluntary commitment: The ERDE initiative renewed its voluntary take-back commitment with the Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV). By 2026, over 60% of asparagus films and by 2027, over 75% of silo and stretch films are to be recycled. Additionally, collection targets were set for other agricultural plastics, such as nets, cords, and fleece.
• Record volumes collected: According to last year's calculations, over 40,000 tons of agricultural plastics were taken back in 2024, which corresponds to a CO₂ saving of around 37,000 tons.
• Growth in Switzerland: Over 2,500 tons of collected agricultural plastics demonstrate the growing commitment to recycling in Swiss agriculture.
• New collection fractions: By the end of 2024, the recycling of drip tapes was integrated in cooperation with AZUD and Netafim

New year, new opportunities: ERDE expands the collection system in 2025
ERDE kicks off the 2025 collection season with important innovations and a broader setup:

• Greenhouse films permanently included in the collection system: After successful tests, greenhouse films are now a permanent part of the collection system. The first take-backs have already begun – an important step towards greater sustainability in agriculture.
• Infrastructure expansion: With nearly 700 collection points and over 150 collection partners, the network is growing significantly, making it easier for agricultural businesses to return materials across a wider area.

With big goals for 2025
ERDE aims to build on the successes of recent years and fulfill the voluntary commitment once again in 2025. Through optimized processes and an expanding network, the collection volumes are set to rise further, reducing the agricultural sector's ecological footprint. ERDE will also be present at Agritechnica ​​​​​​​in November to provide information on current recycling solutions.

"Our successes in 2024 show that we are on the right track. With the further expansion of our collection system and the integration of new fractions like greenhouse films, we aim to achieve even greater successes in 2025. Together with our partners and agricultural businesses, we are actively committed to sustainable agriculture," says Boris Emmel, System Manager ERDE.

Join now and make a statement for sustainability!
Agricultural businesses and retailers are warmly invited to participate in the 2025 collection campaign. Every return helps keep raw materials in the circular economy and protects the environment. ERDE thanks everyone for their participation and looks forward to once again promoting a more efficient circular economy in agriculture this year for a sustainable future.

Further information:
Boris Emmel
System Manager ERDE
Phone: +49 611 308600-20
Email: emmel(at)rigk.de