RIGK GmbH
The RIGK GmbH presents its comprehensive approach to the plastic cycle at IFAT 2024 in Munich, focusing on take-back systems for plastic packaging and industrial, commercial, and agricultural plastics. A significant advancement is the nationwide ERDE Recycling System for agricultural plastics. The ERDE initiative has submitted a voluntary commitment to the Federal Ministry for the Environment: by 2026, over 60 % of asparagus, and by 2027, over 75 % of silo and stretch films should be collected and recycled. Additional agricultural plastics are to be integrated to achieve a comprehensive recycling solution by 2027.
IK-initiative ERDE renews its voluntary take-back commitment
© RIGK GmbH
Bettina Hoffmann, parliamentary state secretary, applauds ERDE for its environmental contribution and emphasizes the impressive responsibility of manufacturers and farmers to collect and recycle more agricultural plastics. Lorena Fricke, ERDE managing director, emphasizes the goal of collecting and recycling all agricultural plastics in Germany to close material cycles and avoid environmental impacts. The financial participation of manufacturers enables cost-effective return processes.
Agricultural films in fruit and vegetable cultivation protect against weather influences. ERDE advocates for manufacturers to take back and recycle as many of their films as possible. The IK initiative ERDE was founded in 2013, with RIGK as the system operator. The first commitment in 2019 was exceeded: over 68 % of silo and stretch films and over 41 % of asparagus films were collected, totaling 38,467 tons of agricultural plastics were 95 % recycled in 2022. Used films serve as raw materials for new agricultural and construction films, irrigation hoses, and garbage bags, saving over 42,748 tons of CO2.
The ERDE initiative is supported by various associations. Martin Courbier, CEO of Agrarhandel e.V., emphasizes ERDE's goal to provide a nationwide disposal service for farmers. The close collaboration of manufacturers, distributors, and farmers is crucial for success. RIGK introduces the ERDE initiative and invites you to discover all the company's take-back systems. The company is dedicated to continuous innovation and sustainability in plastic recycling and warmly welcomes you to participate – "Let’s navigate our way towards a circular economy together."
Booth A6, 316
