Posted: 6 June, 2017. Written by Justyna
Updated compost quality standard to support farmers and growers
New criteria for recycled compost will benefit the organics recycling industry. Renewable Energy Assurance Limited (REAL) has initiated a formal BSI revision process to PAS100 which includes public consultation on the draft changes. The revision will ensure the standard reflects the latest developments in the industry. The process will involve stakeholders in industry, academia, and not-for-profit sectors across the country who will be invited to attend stakeholder meetings and workshops to discuss proposed changes.
REAL has appointed Jenny Grant to act as technical author to draft the revisions following consensus between different stakeholder groups. Jenny has a significant experience in working with PAS standards and is a competent technical advisor for many in the organics sector, including the Organics Recycling Group (ORG).
PAS100 (Publically Available Specification for Composted Materials) is a widely recognised standard for compost quality within the organics recycling sector. Achieving this standard means that material is no longer classified as waste and instead has achieved product status. Certified composts or quality compost are used as organics fertilisers or in horticulture.
The development of the PAS100 specification in 2005 was a major milestone for the UK’s organics recycling industry. There are now over 170 certified processes producing 1.8 million tonnes of compost per annum.
Compost Certification Scheme (CCS), run by REAL, administers the scheme.
The overview of the revision process and information about the meetings is available on the CCS web site at http://www.qualitycompost.org.uk/standards/pas100
Gregor Keenan, CCS Producers’ Forum Representative said:
“PAS100 certification forms the basis for end of waste criteria but it has also become a ‘brand’ symbolising a fully recycled, consistent, quality product.
“Since its inception PAS100 has been updated reflecting changing industry practice, new feedstocks and stakeholder requirements - the current revision is part of this continuing process. The revision should ensure that PAS100 remains relevant, appropriate and continues to meet stakeholder requirements.
“Speaking as a producer, I am pleased with the appointment of Jenny Grant as Technical Author. Jenny has been active in the organics industry for many years and has a wealth of experience working with producers, regulators and end markets.
“As always, I would encourage producers to actively participate in the revision process to ensure their views are put forward.”
Virginia Graham, Chief Executive of Renewable Energy Assurance Limited (REAL) said:
“I am delighted to be working with British Standards Institute, the environmental regulators and other important stakeholders to ensure that the process of revising PAS 100 runs smoothly and results in a revised standard that is up-to-date and responds to the changing policy and market context.”
William McManus, WRAP Sector Specialist said:
“REAL have worked with WRAP on PAS100 since the project started over 15 years ago. It’s great to see them taking ownership of the revision and leading the sector into a new era of sustainable growth.”