The Quality Protocol for Compost is launched today (15th March). This protocol is a joint Environment Agency and WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme) initiative funded by DEFRA and produced in consultation with key industry stakeholders including the Composting Association.

Until now, compost has been technically classified as a waste and, as such, fell under a range of waste management regulations. This inhibited the use of quality compost, particularly in agriculture which is by far and away the largest market for this valuable resource.

The aim of this protocol is to describe parameters for the full recovery of compost which will provide user confidence, protect the environment and ease regulatory burden on the compost processor. In addition it will provide more certainty for business and assist in market development.? This development has been seen as a significant breakthrough within the composting industry.

Jane Gilbert, The Composting Association Chief Executive said;

"Quality standards have been a key factor in the growth of the composting industry and with more than 100 producers on the BSI PAS 100 certification scheme - a scheme established for producers to reach a market specific standard with a minimum quality baseline for their product - it was appropriate to build the framework of the Quality Protocol around it"

Below we have attached one document and two links to the relevant Environment Agency website page which will provide additional useful information which may be downloaded.

1. A list of questions which we anticipate will be asked by key stakeholders with the appropriate answers. Click here
2. A position statement by The Environment Agency making clear their interpretation of the new Quality Protocol. Click here
3. A complete copy of the Quality Protocol can be downloaded here: ?Compost Quality Protocol 661.54 Kb

Should you have any further questions of clarification, then please contact The Composting Association at 0870 160 3270.

Compost producers

To find out more about how your compost can become certified to the Protocol, click here