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Who We Are

The Research Hub works alongside the REAL Compost Certification Scheme (CCS) and Biofertiliser Certification Scheme (BCS). CCS and BCS certify compost and digestate to a set of independent quality Standards (PAS 100 and PAS 110). CCS-certified compost and BCS-certified digestate is considered to have achieved end-of-waste and quality assured status.

REAL established the Research Hub to provide research support for technical and regulatory developments related to the production, testing, and use of certified compost and digestate.

What We Do

The Research Hub funds research to support the following objectives:

  • Maintain and improve the robustness of the Schemes (CCS and BCS) and related Standards (PAS 110 and PAS 100)
  • Reinforce confidence in the compost and anaerobic digestion markets
  • Contribute to the development of new markets, including identifying barriers

How It Works

The Research Hub sources research ideas via an open Call for Proposals at the start of each year. CCS and BCS participants are invited to feedback on proposals.

Proposals are then evaluated by an appointed ‘Research Panel’ of organics sector professionals, considering industry feedback.

Selected projects are funded through an annual Research Fee paid by CCS and BCS participants. REAL appoints a contractor to deliver each project. 

Latest News:

  • Tender Opportunity: Risk Assessments to inform Compost and AD EoW Frameworks

    The Research Hub is seeking an experienced and qualified contractor to undertake a project entitled “Risk assessments to inform the revision of End-of-Waste Frameworks for compost and digestate.” The project aims to inform the development of evidence-based End-of-Waste positions for compost and digestate (i.e., the Compost Resource Framework and AD Resource Framework, respectively). This work will involve:Gap Analysis: Identify potential hazards within the compost and digestate value chains...

    Posted: 28 October, 2024

  • Research Hub starts project on Plant Response Test Interpretation & Comparison!

    We are thrilled to announce the start of our Plant Response Test (PRT) Interpretation and Comparison project! This project arose in response to challenges raised by CCS Producers related to PRT failures (e.g., difficulty identifying the cause germination/top growth failures and the 28-day duration of re-testing). The project will explore the use of a shorter Spring Barley PRT (10-12 days) alongside the standard Tomato PRT...

    Posted: 19 September, 2024