2007 News

Biodegradable alternative to mulesing – one step closer

5 November 2007

Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) has conducted extensive research to identify materials that can be used to manufacture biodegradable ‘breech and tail’ clips.

In line with the industry’s commitment to international retailers to phase-out mulesing by 31 December 2010, AWI is investigating alternatives to mulesing, including the breech and tail clips.

A national program of product development and testing is being conducted, with clips being used on many thousands of lambs this spring.

While the results that are starting to come through are very encouraging, AWI Project Manager Blowfly Control, Ian Evans, said there is the obvious need for the clips to be made from a biodegradable material. AWI is very aware that farmers want an environmentally-friendly solution as well.

Mr Evans said the research has so-far investigated five possible materials.

“The most cost-effective way to manufacture the clips is by injection moulding, and there are a number of plastics which are biodegradable and able to be moulded in this way,” said Mr Evans.

“The challenge is that we need a material that has a shelf life of more than six months, is mechanically strong and holds its strength for at least 3 weeks, can be manufactured in a low cost, high volume manner and produces the same effect as the current clips.

Of the five materials investigated to date, a starch-based product is the most promising.

“Preliminary results show this material has potential. It’s effectively the same as those used in some food products, so it is completely biodegradable and compostable, and non-toxic to people and the environment.

“While a ‘silver bullet’ biodegradable material hasn’t appeared as yet - and we’re still continuing the search - we are pursuing the starch-based material to fully assess how it stands up to the requirements of woolgrowers.”

Mr Evans adds that for the current breech and tail clips AWI has considered a recycling program and tested clips for re-use. However as this will involve clip collection, disinfection and cleaning, labour and cost will likely make this unsuitable for many situations.