The draft document, which was adapted from the existing Composting Association Standard, is sponsored by WRAP under its Compost Standards Programme.
The point of the standard is to provide a simple baseline specification for compost that helps buyers know what they are getting and producers know what consumers want.
The deadline for comments on the draft – known as Publicly Available Specification 100 (PAS 100) – is August 30.
WRAP explained in a statement: “The single most important barrier to developing markets for organic waste derived products was identified as the lack of robust, well recognised standards for compost.”
Because of this, developing comprehensive standards for composted products accompanied by support, monitoring and advice was a key priority, WRAP said.
The draft is based on views of the Composting Association's Standards Development Committee and BSI's committee on topsoil and other growing media. It also draws on the recent international review of compost standards and contributions made by stakeholders during WRAP workshops to review compost standards in February and March 2002.
When the standard is complete, the Composting Association will update its Standards Certification Scheme so it can provide independent assessment and verification of compost conformity.
To request a copy of the draft BSI PAS 100 and a feedback form, contact Rebecca Colyer, tel: 020 8996 7054 or e-mail: rebecca.collyer@bsi-global.com.
