The seminar was held to help develop the marketing of compost by exploring some of the issues surrounding implementing a standard for composting and to identify key barriers to comprehensive standards for composting in the UK.
The workshop was attended by 50 composting operators, manufacturers, technical specialists, regulators and government representatives and identified some of the barriers to developing standards. WRAP said that the seminar came up with ideas and solutions on how to overcome barriers and has helped it to prioritise its work on compost standards.
Ray Georgeson, WRAP's director of policy, said: “Creating market confidence in the composting sector is the key to stimulating demand – and developing comprehensive standards is a vital part of that process. The stimulating and positive contributions generated at the workshop are a great help towards shaping WRAP’s work in this area.”
However, some experts in the composting sector, who declined to be named, questioned the involvement of WRAP.
One composter from southern England, said: “Standards are very important but they have to be appropriate for the market. I can't really see what WRAP is trying to do as we have already got useable standards which have been set by the Composting Association.”
Difficulties in selling compost are recognised by composters. One said: “Obviously the public are worried about compost quality standards. But, there is no point in having standards that can't be reached and are inappropriate for the market. The issue needs to be looked at carefully.”
A spokeswoman for WRAP added: “We are working closely with the Composting Association at every step of this process and are seeking to build on the excellent work that has already been done in this area. Our aim is to help develop and promote comprehensive standards for compost in the UK, which are workable and in tune with the requirements of end users.”
The composting work is part of WRAP's business plan which has seen targets laid down for paper, plastics, glass and wood and for procurement, financial mechanisms and standards and specifications.
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