9. End-of-Waste Case Information (BCS)

“End of waste case information for digestate derived products”

Overview

This project is currently ongoing

This project aims to enable the inclusion of a broader range of end-products and their designated market scope in the Environment Agency’s AD Resources Framework. 

End of waste positions (Quality Protocols / Resource Frameworks) are essential for industry and the Compost and Biofertiliser Certification Schemes (CCS and BCS). Industry is keen for the revised Anaerobic Digestate Quality Protocol (ADQP) - soon to be replaced by the Anaerobic Digestate Resource Framework (ADRF) - to include digestate derived products beyond the currently allowed ‘fertiliser’ and ‘soil improver’ product types.

The project’s key objective is to research and compile information on a range of digestate derived products in terms of how they can be used, the demand for them and how each of them compares to a suitable non-waste comparator.

Access

Access details will be added once the project has been completed.

Selection and Delivery

In 2024, the Research Panel recommended the project for funding. Following a competitive tender period, REAL appointed the University of Southampton as the project contractor in May 2025. Work commenced in May 2025 and is expected to be completed in May 2026.

Associated Documents

  • The Tender Invitation Document (TID), which was used to invite potential contractors to tender for the work, can be found here.