The Biosolids Assurance Scheme – maintaining confidence in biosolids recycling to agricultural land in the UK: PRESENTATION ONLY
Taylor, M. and Grieve, D., Assured Biosolids Limited, UK
(Free)
Contaminants of potential concern
Heavy metals and other potentially toxic elements – already controlled Other POPs of interest – PFAS/PFOS, PAHs, NP, NPE, PBDEs and PCAs – research by UKWIR & CIP work – again evidence-based monitoring and controls could be installed in the BAS at the right time ABL position statements on recycling & microplastics on BAS website Microplastics – increasing media interest and questions Worldwide >9 billion tonnes plastic now produced – already 6 billion is waste! – 1950 <2 million tonnes, 2023 >400 million tonnes produced Wastewater source control actions: BITC report 2023 – calls for wider ‘hierarchy of actions’ starting with producers/sellers of chemicals/plastics Also UK ‘Microplastic Filters (Washing Machines) Bill’ – stalled in 2022? Research by UKWIR and others – yes, biosolids contain microplastics but field work provides mixed results and no clear evidence of harm – so further work required However, important the water industry continues to investigate removal technologies Monitoring/controls could be installed in the BAS at the right time