Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency  has launched a research report into a potential standard for compost derived from biodegradable waste.

The purpose of the research is to promote the development of markets for compost in Ireland after establishing an industry-based compost standard.

The EPA hopes that the market development process will lead to the overall expansion of the composting industry in Ireland by developing other means of revenue generation apart from gate fees.

EPA office of environmental assessment director Larry Stapleton said: “Although significant progress has been made in managing waste, Ireland is in danger of missing a key EU target for diverting biodegradable municipal waste from landfill. The work presented in the research report sets out a scientific basis for improved management of biodegradable waste and will contribute to achieving national goals in this area. The research will support sustainable waste management.”