Illinois Offers Free Recycling Program for Agrichemical Containers

By Andi Anderson

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has announced a free recycling program for agrichemical containers. Farmers and agrichemical facilities are encouraged to participate in this initiative, which will run from mid-July through August at multiple collection sites across the state.

The program helps farmers safely dispose of empty pesticide containers while protecting the environment. Recycled materials are used to make shipping pallets, reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.

“Each year, this program gives farmers and agrichemical facilities an easy way to responsibly dispose of empty pesticide containers,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “Instead of ending up in the trash, these containers can be brought to a nearby collection site and handled the right way.”

Only specific types of containers are accepted. The program allows high-density polyethylene (#2 plastic) agrichemical containers that are clean and dry. Metal containers and household pesticide containers are not eligible. Participants must rinse containers thoroughly and remove all caps, valves, labels, booklets, metal parts, and foil seals before recycling.

Farmers must also prepare larger plastic drums by cutting off the top and bottom and slicing the side from top to bottom. Mini-bulk and intermediate bulk containers can also be recycled, but they require additional preparation. These must be cut into smaller plastic sections, and all metal or wooden parts must be removed.

A private service provider, G. Phillips and Sons, LLC, offers collection services for these bulk containers throughout the year. Farmers can contact them directly for assistance at 678-232-6047.

The program is supported by several organizations, including the Agriculture Container Recycling Council, GROWMARK, Inc., Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association, Illinois Farm Bureau, and the University of Illinois Extension.

Both permanent and single-day collection sites are available across various counties, with set morning and afternoon timings for convenience.

Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of this free service to manage waste responsibly. Proper recycling not only keeps farms clean but also supports environmental protection and sustainable agricultural practices across Illinois.

Photo Credit: illinois-department-of-agriculture