YorGrow complies with The Sludge Use in Agriculture Regulations, applicable with The Waste Management Licensing Regulations and with the Department of Environment’s Codes of Practice. The Codes of Good Agricultural Practice for Air, Soil & Water all make reference to biosolids recycling. They refer to application rates in terms of nutrient requirements of crops allowing for background levels of nutrients, particularly phosphorus, in the soil. More often than not the determining factor in biosolids applications is the maximum of 250 kg of total nitrogen per ha. They also recommend taking regular analysis of soil results.

The NVZ regulations affect applications of biosolids in terms of maximum nitrogen rates (closed periods do not apply as YorGrow products are not classified as high available N).

The Safe Sludge Matrix is an agreement between Water UK and the British Retail Consortium (BRC). It consists of a table of the crop types, together with clear guidance on minimum acceptable standards of biosolids, which may be applied to a particular crop or rotation.

YorGrow has joined The Biosolids Assurance Scheme, which combines legislative and non-legislative requirements. Best practice is audited and certified by an independent body - NSF Certification. The scheme was set up to provide a single transparent assurance scheme standard subject to independent inspection to give reassurance to food chain stakeholders that recycling biosolids to land is a safe and sustainable thing to do.  

If you need further information on any of the regulations we follow please ask your Area Manager.