Status and Development Trend of Plastic Film Mulching Technology in China’s Tobacco Production

The annual planting area of tobacco under plastic film mulching in China exceeds 800 000 hm², which plays a crucial role in ensuring tobacco leaf production. This paper synthesizes and analyzes the application status of plastic film mulching technology in China’s tobacco cultivation and practical experience in pollution control and prevention, based on literature review, field investigations, and research activities. Future development trends are also projected. After four decades of development, and with the shifts of production and lifestyle, China has established a comprehensive plastic film mulching cultivation system for tobacco. Concurrently, the applications for labor-saving, weed control and other agronomic benefits have garnered increased attention. Traditional plastic film (PE) mulching remains the primary application method in tobacco leaf production both currently and for a period ahead. Therefore, further scientific and rational utilization of plastic film mulching holds significant practical relevance. Thus, it is suggested that a tobacco plastic film mulching technology system should be established under the guidance of green development concept and based on a full life-cycle approach and the technological innovation should focus on “reduction, recycling and substitution”, with the further improved recycling and reuse systems. This will facilitate the sustained and healthy development of plastic film mulching technologies in China’s tobacco industry.