Agricultural Plastic Waste Challenges and Innovations

Alina Raphael (), David Iluz and Yitzhak Mastai
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Alina Raphael: The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
David Iluz: Department of Chemistry, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
Yitzhak Mastai: Department of Chemistry, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 17, 1-31

Abstract: Agricultural plastic waste is a growing global concern, as the widespread use of plastics in farming paired with limited waste management infrastructure has led to environmental pollution, resource inefficiency, and practical challenges in rural communities. This review systematically analyzes international policy frameworks and technological advancements aimed at improving agricultural plastic waste management, drawing on peer-reviewed literature and policy documents identified through targeted database searches and screened by transparent inclusion criteria. Comparative analysis of national strategies, such as extended producer responsibility, regional management models, and technology-driven incentives, is combined with a critical evaluation of recycling and biodegradable innovations. The results reveal that while integrated policies can enhance collectthion efficiency and funding stability, their implementation often encounters high costs, logistical barriers, and variability in stakeholder commitment. Advanced recycling methods and emerging biodegradable materials demonstrate technical promise, but face challenges related to field performance, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. The review concludes that sustainable management of agricultural plastics requires a multi-faceted approach, combining robust regulation, economic incentives, technological innovation, and ongoing empirical assessment. These findings emphasize the importance of adapting strategies to local contexts and suggest that the successful transition to circular management models will depend on continued collaboration across policy, technology, and stakeholder domains.

Keywords: microplastic; agricultural plastic waste; ecosystems; biodegradable; innovative technologies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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