The set of rules which regulates the UK fertiliser market is outdated and needs to be revised, governments from the four devolved regions of the UK have said.
In a public consultation document, the four governments propose a “new regulatory framework” for placing fertiliser products on the market. The new regulations would not directly apply to farmers as the use and application of fertiliser is not covered by the proposed framework.
Instead, the new regulations aim to follow similar EU legislation which governs the requirements that fertiliser products must meet to be placed on the market.
In the consultation, the four UK governments highlight shortcomings in the existing regulations for new fertiliser products.
“There are limited or no quality or compositional regulatory requirements for newer products, such as plant bio-stimulants and controlled-release fertilisers,” the document reads.
The four UK governments also suggest there is a need for tighter regulation of novel fertilisers, such as products that are made from biological waste and organic material.
“Significant uncertainty remains around these products, and their risks and benefits,” the consultation states.
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