Defra has launched a consultation to look at current fertiliser regulations, which the department says are largely ‘outdated’.
The current framework has remained largely unchanged for more than 20 years and applies mainly to inorganic mineral fertilisers. The consultation focuses on proposals to repeal existing fertilisers legislation and replace it with a new regulatory framework (UK Fertilising Product Regulations) for placing fertilising products on the market in the UK.
Defra expects reform of UK fertiliser legislation to support innovation in the fertiliser sector by smoothing the route to market for newer and novel fertilising products. It suggests such products are less resource intensive in their production and expects access to new and innovative fertilisers will help farmers reduce pollution. Defra hopes the new legislation will increase farmer confidence in a more diverse range of safe and effective fertilising products.
Defra says expanding access to a wider range of fertiliser products and introducing a more flexible legislative framework would help strengthen future fertiliser supply.
The consultation will run for eight weeks, closing on Wednesday 13 May, with responses invited from farmers, manufacturers, environmental groups and the wider industry.
To have your say, please visit: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/fertilisers-team/
