The AN Group is conducting trials to replace the plastic used in agriculture with a biodegradable paper solution, within the framework of the “Towards to zero plastic soil management agricultural practices" LIFE project. Researchers will study the validity of AgroPaper, a biodegradable pine fiber-based paper developed by Smurfit Kappa Sangüesa that maintains its resistance properties in conditions of high humidity and water.
The tests will be carried out during two consecutive campaigns in a Centex experimental farm, in the Navarran town of Castejon, where this paper has already been placed on an area dedicated to tomato. In the coming weeks, it will be placed in the pepper plantation and, in August, in the artichoke crops.
The AN Group trial contemplates using 11,000 meters of AgroPaper this year to see if it improves soil quality, increases productivity, reduces waste treatment time, and the production's carbon footprint.
According to Efe, the project is led by Smurfit Kappa Sangüesa and is being carried out in partnership with the Center for Soil Science and Applied Biology of the Segura-Superior Council for Scientific Research, Floreale Holding, Florette Iberica, and the Spanish Society for Ecological Agriculture. Its objective is to promote the replacement of large-area plastic padding through an innovative and environmentally friendly solution, a commitment to advance towards environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
Source: interempresas.net