Regenerative Agriculture Practices: How Biodegradable Mulch Film Helps Reduce Plastic Pollution
Mulch film is widely used in modern agriculture to create better growing conditions for crops. By helping retain soil moisture, increase soil temperature, and suppress weed growth, it supports healthier crop development and has become a common practice in the cultivation of garlic and many other high-value crops.
However, conventional plastic mulch film presents a significant environmental challenge. After each growing season, it is often difficult to recover completely from the field. Plastic fragments left in the soil can interfere with future cultivation and accumulate over time, contributing to long-term soil contamination and agricultural plastic pollution.
Finding ways to maintain the agronomic benefits of mulch film while reducing its environmental impact has become an important focus of sustainable agriculture.
What Is Biodegradable Mulch Film?
Biodegradable mulch film is an alternative ground-covering material designed to perform the same functions as conventional plastic mulch during the crop growing season while gradually breaking down under natural environmental conditions after use.
Under the combined effects of microorganisms, moisture, and temperature, biodegradable mulch film can decompose into naturally occurring substances such as carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. This helps reduce long-term plastic residue in agricultural soils and lowers the environmental impact associated with conventional plastic mulch. Like traditional mulch film, biodegradable mulch film helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and support healthy crop growth throughout the growing season.
Applying Biodegradable Mulch Film in Shundi's Regenerative Agriculture Project
The use of biodegradable mulch film is one of the key practices in Shundi Foods' regenerative agriculture project for garlic cultivation in Shandong Province. As part of the project, Shundi provides biodegradable mulch film free of charge to participating growers. Farmers also receive practical guidance tailored to local growing conditions, including support on proper installation, field management, and best practices to help maximize the effectiveness of the material.
In addition to following the recommended application methods, participating growers record and provide field data throughout the season. This information supports ongoing monitoring and evaluation, allowing the project team to continuously refine and improve the implementation of regenerative farming practices.
Advancing More Sustainable Garlic Farming
Through continuous training, technical support, and field experience, Shundi is helping promote the adoption of more environmentally responsible mulching materials in garlic production while building practical knowledge for sustainable field management.
Alongside biodegradable mulch film, the project also incorporates regenerative agriculture practices such as organic fertilizer application and science-based 4R nutrient management. Together, these initiatives aim to improve soil health, enhance agricultural resilience, and support the development of a healthier and more sustainable food ingredient supply chain.
As the project progresses, Shundi will continue sharing insights and experiences from its regenerative agriculture initiatives, demonstrating how practical innovations can contribute to the long-term sustainability of agricultural production.