Clear Dip and Bimeda Collaborate to Pioneer Safe Disposal of Waste Sheep Dip Using Innovative Technology

The Clear Dip team and Bimeda Animal Health, leaders in parasite control, have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at tackling one of the most pressing environmental and livestock welfare challenges: the safe and sustainable disposal of waste sheep dip.

Sheep scab, caused by the mite Psoroptes ovis, remains a significant threat to animal welfare and productivity across the UK. Bimeda's Gold Fleece Sheep Dip, containing the organophosphate diazinon, has become a critical tool in controlling this parasite. However, the disposal of waste dip-especially for commercial dipping contractors, has become increasingly difficult due to limited or no access to licensed waste facilities.

This programme aims to advance the de-risking process by allowing waste sheep dip to be treated at the point of use, with diazinon being captured for safe disposal. The project will then be supported by Innovate UK grant funding within the ADOPT programme, which the Clear Dip team have secured. 

Ruth Clements, programme lead for Clear Dip, said "we are excited to be bringing this potential, much needed, solution to sheep dip disposal. This approach aims to strengthen farm resilience and support sheep welfare by enabling sustainable medicine use and environmental protection."

"Waste dip disposal is reaching a critical point," said Rachel Mallet, Veterinarian for Bimeda UK. "Without a viable solution, we risk undermining the very tools that protect sheep welfare. This collaboration is about finding a scientifically sound, responsible, and affordable way forward."

This collaboration reflects both parties' commitment to environmental sustainability, animal welfare, and responsible use of veterinary medicinal products.

For further information, please contact: 

Notes To Editors

1. Clear Dip is an innovation developed by a small team of farmers, engineers and environmental specialists working to rapidly develop a practical solution to the challenge of safe sheep dip disposal.
2. Bimeda is a leading global manufacturer, marketer and distributor of animal health products and veterinary pharmaceuticals. Through ongoing expansion and strategic acquisition, Bimeda has established markets in more than eighty countries worldwide and has R&D, manufacturing and distribution capabilities across Europe, North America, South America, Africa, Asia and Australasia. Bimeda employs over 1000 employees worldwide and has its global headquarters in Dublin, Ireland.
3. Further information on safe and legal disposal of waste sheep dip should be sought from the devolved environmental agencies as follows:
    > England: Environment Agency (EA): https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/environment-agency
    > Scotland: Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA): https://www.sepa.org.uk/
    > Wales: Natural Resources Wales (NRW): https://naturalresources.wales/
    > Northern Ireland: Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA): https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/
4. Gold Fleece Sheep Dip, 608 mg/ml Concentrate for Dip Emulsion is a POM-VPS medicine containing 608mg/ml diazinon. It is licenced for the prevention and treatment of Blowfly Strike, Ticks, Keds, Lice and Scab infestations. For further information see the SPC available on the VMD website. Advice should be sought from the prescriber. Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription alone. This communication is intended for farmers in England, Scotland and Wales. Use Medicines Responsibly. Noah.co.uk/responsible.