After successfully developing biodegradable single-use cutlery, London-based technology company Polymateria has turned its attention to baler twine.

The company estimates that for every 10,000 bales, up to 30kg of offcuts remain in the field, making their way into forage and gradually breaking down into microplastics that contaminate watercourses.

See also: Ultimate guide to buying a round baler 2024

Its novel Biocord, which is produced by Portuguese firm Cordex, is said to offer the same performance as standard synthetic stuff.

However, once exposed to light and heat (and, to a lesser degree, moisture and air) it will transform, within two years, into a harmless wax that can be consumed by soil microbes and fungi. 

That inevitably means there are limitations to its use. Most significantly, it is only currently suitable for bales that are to be wrapped in stretch film. Getting it working for hay and straw is far more complicated.

The balls of twine also need to be stored carefully in their protective packaging to prevent premature degradation.

Biocord is estimated to cost roughly 15% more than conventional twine.