Microplastic-free seed coatings
The sale of seed treatments with intentionally added microplastics are to be banned in Europe in 2028 and it is expected that other regions of the world will also look critically at their use of microplastics. The need for microplastic-free seed treatments has never been greater. Helping customers get ahead of a major regulatory impact, we are expanding our line of microplastic-free seed coatings. Our new-generation seed solutions include products for both vegetables and field crops.
Agricultural activity accounts for about 10% of the total microplastic release. Although seed treatment accounts for only a small part of that, our industry can play an active part in reducing the environmental impact of microplastics.
Seed-coating products
A crucial component of many seed coating products is the binder. This is usually a polymer and most polymers are considered to be microplastic containing. The binder is responsible for the safe and effective adherence of components of the coating. A quality binder keeps dust-off to a minimum and improves the coating’s abrasion resistance. It keeps all the ingredients where they should be – on the seed.
Most of Incotec’s products for vegetable seeds are microplastic free. In addition to this, we are working on the next generation microplastic-free product range which includes products for both vegetables and field crops. The first of these are already available.
Are microplastic-free products effective?
Yes. Formulating an effective microplastic-free seed coating with all the high-quality properties our customers are used to can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. We apply the same high standards to our microplastic-free solutions as we do to all our products. Our microplastic-free products meet or exceed the industry standards and are safe for seed, safe for the environment and safe for those who handle them.
Microplastics ban: in Europe and elsewhere
There is growing concern all over the world on the topic of microplastics accumulating in the environment. The restriction on intentionally added microplastics was adopted in Europe in Autumn 2023, with a total ban on sales coming into effect in 2028 for film coatings. So, customers in Europe will be affected first. But a similar course of action will likely be seen elsewhere. Our microplastic-free products are being introduced first in Europe and gradually rolled out around the globe.
A microplastic-free future for seed treatments
Newsletters: microplastics and the seed industry
Opinion : Are microplastic-free solutions here to stay?
Mission Zero
Microplastic-free coating for corn
