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Interpretation Panel
UKWAS Interpretation Note 6 - Use of bio-solids
Key Words: Fertilisers, bio-solids, waste disposal.
Relevant requirement references: 5.2.5c, UKWAS 2nd edition
Date: Discussed at Interpretation Panel meeting 1 November 2006 and agreed via email communication.
Question:
Tilhill auditors are unsure on the ability to use bio-solids
under wording of requirement 5.2.5c.
Does the standard mean that bio-solids cannot now be used, and, if so is
that what the standard should mean?
Discussion:
Bio-solids are used at rates of 2-400t/ha, and their use is a highly
regulated activity needing an EIA. While bio-solids are used for
fertilisation, they also provide some weevil control, as well as a
social service in waste disposal. Concern was raised that the quantities
used are not simply to aid establishment. Concern was also raised that
bio-solid use as a social service is not an acceptable use in a
certified woodland. The rates of bio-solids applied are required in
order to achieve the corresponding N P K outputs of inorganic
fertilisers.
Interpretation Panel meeting of 1st November 2006 agreed that:
1. the Standard only permitted the use of bio-solids as a fertiliser
within the limits stated in requirements 5.2.5a and 5.2.5b; and
2. when bio-solids were used as a fertiliser an assessment of the
environmental impacts of their application was necessary under the
relevant parts of Requirements 3.1.1, 3.1.2 and 3.1.3.
Conclusions:
The use of bio-solids as a fertiliser is permitted.
FC Information Note 079 “Use of Sewage Sludges and Composts in Forestry”, January 2006, Andy Moffat.
(Replaces and updates FC Bulletin 107, “A Manual of Good Practice for the use of sewage sludge in forestry”, 1992.)