Ireland mulls sustainable waste management standards

Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a new research report into a potential standard for compost derived from biodegradable waste material.

The research was conducted by Cré – Composting Association of Ireland, which consulted with a wide variety of stakeholders. The report proposes upper limits for heavy metals, pathogens and impurities based on an assessment of potential impacts on human, plant, soil, animal health and the environment.

“Although significant progress has been made in managing waste, Ireland is in danger of missing a key EU target for diverting biodegradable municipal waste from landfill,” said Larry Stapleton, EPA Director for the Office of Environmental Assessment. “The work presented in today’s research report sets out a scientific basis for improved management of biodegradable waste and will contribute to achieving national goals in this area. The research will support sustainable waste management.”

The final results of the project were presented to scientists, policymakers and other stakeholders at a special launch event in Dublin.