The Animal By-Product Regulation, which dictates the disposal of animal waste, has applied across the European Union since May 1 2003 but the UK did not fully implement it until July 1 (see letsrecycle.com story). Following consultations with stakeholders, Scotland has further postponed introducing the regulation.
The Scottish deputy environment and rural development minister, Allan Wilson, said that the delay is to enable some definitions to be finalised and for the regulations to be laid before the Scottish Parliament. He added that further consideration is also needed on other issues related to the regulation including the options for a national fallen stock disposal scheme.
Mr Wilson told the Scottish Parliament: “The introduction of the legislative measures to enforce the new EC rules in Scotland will enhance and strengthen the existing statutory framework and bring real benefits in terms of protecting the public and improving animal and environmental health standards.
“I am however aware that there are still a number of practical issues that need to be resolved including the disposal of butchers waste, rejected cans of petfood and separating meat or fish waste from other waste foodstuffs at retail level.
“In view of this, I have agreed to postpone the implementation date for the animal by-products legislation so that these controls are brought into force by 1 October this year. This will also give all key stakeholders the breathing space they need to ensure that they are in a position to comply with the requirements of the EC Regulations.”
Mr Wilson said that two months is needed from August 1 for the work on the Animal By-Products Regulation. The current enforcement arrangements for disposal of fallen stock and other animal waste will continue in Scotland until the controls are introduced in October.
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