Tests with the new Eco-Pack containers have shown farmers can save up to 25% in time on sprayer operations because opening, emptying and rinsing the cans is so much easier.
BASF's new Eco Pack range of easy-use, easy-rinse packaging will be launched in the UK this spring for two of the company's most widely used cereal fungicides, Tracker and Opus.
Developed in conjunction with farmers, this novel packaging system improves on-farm efficiency as well as contributing a significant step forward in addressing environmentally driven industry needs.
The packs are lightweight, easy-to-handle with a central opening at the top, a new screw cap without a foil seal and a special design that reduces glugging, spillage and allows easier rinsing. All components of the Eco Pack are made from polyethylene - including the new plastic label - which simplifies recycling.
Commenting on the innovative design BASF's Peter Hughes said the Eco Pack had been developed with the operator and the environment in mind.
"We are listening to what farmers are asking for," he said. "On-farm tests show that farmers can save up to 25% in time on sprayer operations because opening, emptying and rinsing the cans is so much easier.
"Time savings are of critical importance at busy times of the season, especially when weather is a limiting factor."
Customers of Harlow Agricultural Merchants trialled Crystal in the Eco Pack in 2009 and their views were very positive.
"The packs are excellent; a big improvement on others in the market, the centred opening makes them really easy to handle and much faster to wash out," farmer Richard Peake said. "Plus having no foil seal is just wonderful; it speeds up sprayer filling no end."
For more information visit: www.agricentre.basf.co.uk.
