PAS100
Publicly Available Specification 100 (PAS100) was published in 2018 by the Brisitsh Standards Institute, as a Quality Protocol for the management of composted materials produced from source-segregated biodegradable waste[1][3].
It is a British Standard, and forms a key part of the delivery of the demonstration of the End of Waste (EoW) under the Compost Resource Framework[2].
The application of compost can add valuable nutrients and fertiliser to agricultural land and amounts of organic material that aids soil structure.
Context
The Waste Quality protocols are progressively being reviewed as a series of resource frameworks.
The Compost Resource Framework first phase review has been completed and the second stage is due to be reviewed in summer 2026.
The first phase[2]:
- updated the waste inputs with ‘99’ codes to the correct waste codes, and improved the description of the approved waste inputs
- removed waste inputs where elements of contamination can arise to ensure end user confidence
- reduced the plastic limits
- now require the producer to ensure that there is a confidence of end use
- clarified the point where the end-of-waste test is met
The second phase will consider risk assessements and updated research and findings.
Purpose
The resource framework sets out the approach to follow to understand when compost is no longer considered waste (End of Waste). This is so:
- it is clear when it is no longer needed to follow waste management controls for digestate products
- there is confidence that the quality of digestate produced meets an approved standard
- there is confidence that the quality of digestate produced is suitable for use in appropriate markets
- human health can be protected and pollution of the environment, including soil, can be prevented
Scope/Overview of Requirements
- Input wastes are segregated and specified/detailed by waste code
- Type of packaging material is specified/detailed
- Storage and processing controls are met
- The maximum allowed concntration of plastic is 0.6% m/m in air-dry compost (equivalent to 50% of that in Table 3 of PAS100)
- No further treatment other than that set out in PAS100
- Meet any extra specification by customer
- There is certainty of use
- Compliance with nutrient management plans (NMP)
- There is certification from a third-party certificated body (including rules on keeping and maintaining records not limited to input waste and output product)
