From 2018, farmers will have to produce a purchase code if they want to recycle bale net wrap at the subsidised price.

At present, the subsidised price for recycling silage film is €5 per 500kg whereas the full price is €15. The subsidy comes from the levy that is charged at time of purchase.

The amount of farm plastic being recycled has risen by 2% in 2017 and is 20% on five years ago.