News from the Compost Certification Scheme

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Are you missing an opportunity to have your say?

Posted: 13 May, 2015. Written by Justyna

Compost Producers’ Forum hold successful second meeting

The second meeting of the Compost Producers’ Forum was held on 29^th April in Bristol. The Producers’ Forum provides producers with the opportunity to raise and discuss issues they may be experiencing in relation to certification under the scheme. It is a great opportunity for you to find out more about the scheme, get relevant updates on issues concerning industry, discuss issues with other compost producers, and most importantly help shape future activity.

The meeting comprised of details of relevant legislation and regulation and updates on the scheme itself followed by discussion focused around a review of PAS100. There was a great deal of discussion around the need for a review, what this should include and how it could be structured. 

Detailed notes are available here.

Recent developments for the scheme include:

• Launch of the new database which will be updated on a daily basis
• Review of the plant response test
• Work around lab monitoring is ongoing and terms and conditions for laboratories have been developed
• Independent auditors have been appointed
• Plans are in place for another inter-lab trial later this year.  

The Producers’ Forum is not just for networking and discussion and it is important that there are meaningful actions coming from the meeting. The following are some of the actions identified:

• Feedback to REA re EU Fertilisers Regulation – more clarity needed regarding the review process and on the ABP treatment requirements.
• REAL to liaise with WRAP regarding publication of the final reports from the finished projects that are of interest to composting.
• Find out the likely costs for reviewing PAS100 and the various options (remain as PAS100, full British Standard etc). Further discussion needed on how the review should be governed.
• Get more feedback from other producers not present at the meeting regarding their thoughts on the need for a review of PAS100.

The next meeting will be held in September and we urge compost producers to come along if you can. Don’t miss an opportunity to have your say and tell us what you think! If you are unable to attend, we welcome any thoughts via email (Justyna@qualitycompost.org.uk).