Addressing challenges in tree planting
One of the most important challenges in tree planting today is the need to use conventional plastics to ensure survival and healthy growth of young tree plants. Many protective solutions are made from alternative materials, such as cardboard, which have been largely unsuccessful at trails.
Launched in the 1960’s, the Rainbow Spiral Guard offers an effective solution for seedling protection that stands up to all weather conditions – does not shrink and allows air circulation through the pre- formed holes. The product is easy to unfurl, fit for purpose and cost effective. Additionally, the spiral protects trees against herbicides drifting in the wind, offering more flexibility, efficiency and effectiveness of weed control.
Rainbow has now developed its first bio-based tree spiral, ‘Rainbow Bio 1’ that has passed all required tests against EU guidelines at an independent laboratory and is classed as fully compostable. The spiral has also gained the DIN CERTO certificate. Over the last three years, the Rainbow Bio 1 has been field tested in several trials across the UK and Europe. This has resulted in a product that is suitable to last for >3 years at the typical range of temperature extremes that have been found in forests.
Strong bio credentials
The Rainbow Bio-spiral offers a significant improvement on products made from conventional plastics; however, Rainbow also recognizes there is a great deal over confusion about innovations in plastics.
This can in part be attributed to legislation being heavily geared toward the packaging industry. The Rainbow Bio Spiral is made from 100% biodegradable polymers; however, the finished product cannot be classed as biodegradable but should be classed as bio-based and compostable. Rainbow encourages all stakeholders to adopt this terminology. The key difference lies in the fact that products classed as biodegradable need to degrade within 6 months, making the product not fit for purpose.
Please click the questions below to reveal the answers!
If you require more information on any of our products and ranges, visit our downloads page to download the information documents.
Click here now