Effects of waste agricultural film recycling by farmers on agriculture and animal husbandry in Qingyang City, Gansu Province

Agricultural film mulch is an important production measure of agriculture and animal husbandry in arid and semi-arid areas. Although these films promote agricultural and pastoral production, they are also associated with ecological and environmental problems. The recycling of waste plastic film is an important component of rural environmental pollution management. To promote the efficient and sustainable use of agricultural film and clean agricultural production, and thereby assist in rural revitalization, this study clarified the factors that affect the recycling of waste agricultural film by farmers. A research method that integrates data collection and questionnaire surveys utilizing logistic analysis was employed. Qingyang City in Gansu Province was evaluated to determine the key issues and influencing factors in relation to waste agricultural film recycling. The results showed: (1) In 2020, a total of 31 533 tons of waste agricultural film was produced in Qingyang City, with a recycled amount of 25,870 tons, resulting in a recycling rate of 82%; (2) The key factors influencing the picking up of agricultural film by farmers were government financial subsidies, training and publicity, and the construction of recycling outlets; (3) Among others, strategies to improve waste film recycling support policies included expanding publicity efforts, strengthening the research and development and promotion of degradable agricultural films, improving the level of picking mechanization, and the construction of recycling networks. These findings provide insights into waste agricultural film management and its implications in the green and sustainable development of agriculture in arid and semi-arid areas.