# The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has launched a field trial of biobased, biodegradable mulch films on a pineapple farm near Peddie in the Eastern Cape. Funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the project aims to replace fossil-fuel plastic films with eco-friendly alternatives. The new films decompose into organic matter, reducing microplastic pollution. Officials say the innovation supports both crop performance and South Africa’s circular economy goals in agriculture.
CSIR pilots eco-friendly mulch films to cut plastic waste in agriculture