01/09/08
Robust regulation is the basis of a sustainable practice if it is to retain the confidence of the public, which for use of biosolids (treated sewage sludge) is a natural requirement of farmers and their customers in the food supply chain.
This was particularly relevant in recent weeks with use of biosolids for growing crops so much in the news (in Metro, the Guardian and BBC Country File among others).
Most coverage has been responsible in recognising the value of, and growing demand for, biosolids as an important fertiliser and soil improver against a background of high artificial fertiliser cost and rising general inflation.
However, the temptation on this issue to go for publicity with a noisy headline and choice of material was not always resisted. In the UK there is no evidence of adverse impact on health from use of biosolids on farmland, which has been subject to UK and EU regulation for decades.
Use of treated sewage sludge
Water UK press release 29/08/08
Contact: Steve Ntifo or Barrie Clarke
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