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 Balewrap is a plastic film used by the agricultural sector to protect and store bales of hay, straw, silage and maize.
The County of Wellington is working with Think Plastics Inc. from New Hamburg, Ontario, on a balewrap recycling collection programme at the Riverstown Waste Facility.
All members of the farming community in Wellington County
may participate in this "free" waste diversion initiative.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Click here for the printer friendly fact sheet that explains how to participate
(includes a map showing the location of Riverstown Waste Facility).
ACCEPTABLE BALEWRAP
Only linear low density polyethylene film that is white on both sides can be accepted.
UNACCEPTABLE MATERIALS
- Balewrap that is not prepared properly
- Coloured balewrap (e.g., black, green, etc.)
- Balewrap that is white on one side and coloured on the other
- White balewrap that is wrapped with twine or placed in bags
- Twine, plastic containers/pails, plastic bags, garbage, etc.
PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS
In order to be suitable for recycling, Think Plastics requires the balewrap to be prepared as follows:
- Shake the plastic to eliminate rocks and stones.
- Ensure that there is only a minimal amount of dirt on the balewrap. Washing is not necessary, however, material with excessive dirt cannot be accepted for recycling.
- Cut balewrap into small sections and roll the material.
- Each bundle must weigh between 1.5 to 2.5 kg (3 to 5 lb.).
- Do not put balewrap into bags or tie with twine.
DROP-OFF INSTRUCTIONS
Deliver properly prepared balewrap to the Riverstown Waste Facility.
- At the scale house, let the attendant know that you have balewrap and follow the drop-off instructions.
- There is no tipping fee to drop-off properly prepared balewrap. (Regular disposal fees will apply for balewrap that is mixed with other waste or not properly prepared.)
- Customers are responsible for unloading the balewrap and placing it into the specified collection area.
WHY RECYCLE BALEWRAP?
TO PRACTICE A PREFERABLE ALTERNATIVE TO BURYING OR BURNING
Diverting balewrap from landfill helps conserve landfill capacity.
Open burning of balewrap causes toxins to be released into the air, which can subsequently contaminate ground water and crops, and cause respiratory problems in humans and animals. In addition, hazardous by-products such as metals, dioxins and furans can be present in the residual ash (Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs).
TO CONSERVE NATURAL RESOURCES
Think Plastics Inc. uses a recycling process that converts balewrap into a 100% polyethylene plastic lumber called Baleboard.
Products made from Baleboard include: fencing, pig barn flooring, horse stalls, outdoor recreational furniture and benches, docks and decks, bleacher seating, sign posts, etc. Baleboard can be nailed, screwed, stapled, glued or cut.
Photos courtesy of Think Plastics Inc.
QUESTIONS Contact SWS
Working together to reduce waste in Wellington County!
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Key Documents for Balewrap Recycling
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