Use of wastewater bio-solids (also known as sewage sludge)

Biosolids are the solids separated from wastewater and created during its treatment, their use in agriculture is regulated and sludge disposal strictly controlled. Treated sewage sludge (often called biosolids) contains fertiliser nutrients and can improve soil structure when applied correctly to the land. However, it may contain heavy metals and can be harmful to humans and animals if incorrectly applied.

Below are links to statements and reports by a range of scientific bodies of national or international standing.

UK Government and regulators

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) supports and develops UK farming, biodiversity & sustainability, and environmental policy.

The House of Commons Environmental, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee conducts enquiries and provides reports on a range of matters concerning expenditure, administration and policies of Defra.

The House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee conducts inquiries and provides reports on a range of matters concerning environmental protection and sustainable development issues.

The House of Lords EU Sub-Committee D on Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment conducts inquiries and provides reports on a range of matters concerning agricultural, environmental, animal and fisheries policy in the EU.

The Environment Agency is a Non-Departmental Public Body responsible for the protection and imporvement of the environment, and to promote sustainable development. 

The Forestry Commission is a Non-Departmental Public Body responsible for the protection of Britain's forests and woodlands.

The Office of Public Sector Information records, stores and shares information of official public record.

Water UK represents all UK water and wastewater service suppliers at national and European level. Providing a framework for the water industry to engage with government, regulators, stakeholder organisations and the public.

International policy and regulations

Science for Environment Policy (EU) - News updates for the EU Directorate General responsible for the Environment.

The Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) is an international scientific society that fosters the transfer of knowledge and practices to sustain global soils. Founded in 1936, SSSA is the professional home for 6,000+ members dedicated to advancing the field of soil science.

Further information

Seven Oaks Local Government Information Paper

The Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) has a history of working in environmental management dating back to 1895. In the succeeding decades, engineers, scientists and other professionals came together to combine their expertise across a broad range of environmental disciplines.

ADAS is the UK's largest independent provider of environmental consultancy, rural development services and policy advice.