National specifications for compost to be reviewed
The nationally recognised specification for compost, BSI PAS 100, is being reviewed to ensure that everything it comprises - from product preparation to monitoring and traceability - is fully up-to-date and in line with changes in the fast-moving recycling industry.
The review is being undertaken by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme), BSI British Standards and the Association for Organics Recycling (AFOR), with support from a steering group comprising regulators (the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the Environment Agency), technical specialists and industry representatives.
It will look at all aspects of BSI PAS 100, including its alignment with the Quality Protocol (QP), which was published in 2007 to reduce the regulatory burden on the production and use of compost.
BSI PAS 100, which was first published in 2002 and then updated in 2005, is designed to give purchasers peace of mind about product quality, since all compost produced to the specification must meet minimum quality and process control criteria to ensure its suitability for use as a soil improver, mulch, turf dressing or ingredient in other products.
The specification covers only biodegradable materials that have been kept separate from non-biodegradables, and can apply to composted materials produced at centralised facilities, on-farm operations and community composting schemes.
In addition to the overall BSI PAS 100 review, three specific pieces of research will be undertaken.
1. Review of stability testing: This will involve an analysis and evaluation of the current method for testing the stability of compost and review emerging methodologies - particularly those used in compost standards elsewhere.
2. Review of plant growth test for compost: This will include a review of the current method and will make recommendations for the retention, modification or replacement of this test.
3. Data analysis testing & recommendations: This will involve the collation and analysis of BSI PAS 100 compost quality data, and aims to develop statistically based look-up table(s) for compost batch testing frequency based on compost variability.
Dr Richard Swannell, Director of Retail and Organics at WRAP, said: "BSI PAS 100 provides a critical benchmark for the composting industry, giving purchasers peace of mind about the quality and consistency of products.
"With interest in the organics recycling industry at an all-time high, it is imperative that the specification is regularly updated to ensure that it reflects developments within the industry and continues to provide a valuable resource for producers, users and specifiers alike.
"Given recent rapid increases in compost production, it is vital that compost users have confidence in the product. BSI PAS 100 provides the benchmark for product quality, and this review should ensure that customer confidence remains high. "
The first new draft of BSI PAS 100 will be available for public consultation by spring 2009 and the final document is expected to be published in late summer 2009.
