Hogan launches Irish compost quality standard IS 441

The Irish composting market has received a boost with the introduction of a national quality standard IS 441, which will help create new markets for compost operators.

(L to R): John O'Neill, Department of the Environment, Maurice Buckley from NSAI, Minister Phil Hogan and Conor McGovern from rx3

The standard was launched by Environment Minister Phil Hogan last week (September 26) and will be underpinned by a National Compost Quality Assurance Scheme, which will be known as CQAS 441:2011.

Compost that meets IS 441 will be perceived as being a higher quality product and is likely to generate increased revenue for those operating to the standard. The standard is a joint initiative between the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, NSAI and rx3.

Launching the new standard, Hogan said it "will instil confidence" and provide certainty for consumers when they are choosing which compost to buy.

Maxine Perella