This article reviews two different but linked issues. The first one is a technical discussion on innovative covering materials for intensive horticulture with emphasis on plastics for greenhouse covering: updated information on the performance of highly diffusive covers, NIR filtering films, anti-drip films, insect-proof screens and other experimental coverings under investigation (such as new anti-drip films and ultrathermic films) is discussed. The second subject is concerned with environmental issues: based on the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, quantitative information on the environmental impact of greenhouse production in unheated Mediterranean greenhouses is presented and the relative environmental importance of the covering material on the whole greenhouse production process is discussed. After the end of its useful life, greenhouse covers are taken off and treated as waste. In Almeria (Southern Spain) plastic waste is mainly treated in two different ways: recycled to meet some other applications, such as producing rubbish bags, boxes, etc. or incinerated in a nearby power plant to produce electricity. A simplified quantitative environmental impact assessment for both options is presented. This assessment is referred to relevant indicators such as Global Warming Potential and risk of Eutrophication. Results show that the valorization of PE waste as energy source is more positive than recycling PE waste in terms of environmental concern, though deeper analyses on this subject are required.
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