By Elizabeth Danielson
The Ag Container Recycling Council (ACRC) works with private and state contractors across the United States to collect and recycle 55-gallon or smaller containers. In 2022, over 900,000 pounds of pesticide containers were collected and recycled in Iowa.
The ACRC accepts containers that previously held products used in crop protection, animal health, and specialty pest control. Also accepted are micronutrient, biologicals, fertilizer, and adjuvant containers. Containers that originally held consumer products, including home and garden pesticides, are not accepted.
Scheduling a Pickup
G. Phillips & Sons is the ACRC Contractor in Iowa. Rigid HDPE, 55-gallon or smaller containers can be picked up throughout the year by contacting G. Phillips & Sons at 319-248-5550 or admin@recyclinggrinding.com. The minimum requirement for free pickup is 1,000 pounds. Contact G. Phillips & Sons for recycling options for smaller quantities.
Preparing containers
Containers must be triple rinsed or pressure rinsed. A clean container means no residues can be wiped off the inside or outside of the container with the finger of a glove. Download and use the container preparation checklist to ensure your containers are ready for recycling. G. Phillips & Sons can supply baling twine to connect ten to fifteen containers together prior to pick up.
Recycling other ag plastics
The ACRC provides links and contact information for companies offering recycling of containers and products that are not included in their program. Agricultural plastics and products that may be recycled include IBC/Caged totes, asset totes, drip tape, poly tube, mulch and greenhouse film, grain bags, silage wrap, super sacks, pallets, plastic bags, nursery pots and trays, twine, and steel containers.
Source : iastate.edu