Industrial Residuals Regulatory Review

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Client: 
British Columbia Ministry of Environment

On September 1, 2007 the Soil Amendment Code of Practice (SACoP) came into force in British Columbia. The SACoP is a ministerial regulation that enables recycling of residuals not covered under the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation (OMRR): ash, waste lime and lime mud, pulp and paper residuals, wood waste and water treatment residuals.

In conjunction with the development of the Code of Practice, SYLVIS completed an extensive literature review and survey for the Ministry of Environment (MoE) to characterize the included residuals and assess the regulatory requirements for their use in other jurisdictions. This comprehensive report included the materials' physicochemical properties, beneficial uses and potential risks in their use as a fertilizer or soil amendment.

SYLVIS completed an international survey of different jurisdictions, which have similar codes of practice / regulations in place. SYLVIS evaluated and compared regulatory approaches; public notification of land application activities; on-site management; trace element and pathogen limits; and prohibitions, constraints and limitations on residuals application. This information was used by the MoE as a resource document in the development of the SACoP to ensure beneficial use of residuals that is protective of human health and the environment without undue regulatory burden.

In working with the MoE in the development of the SACoP, SYLVIS developed a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework and the basis for the use of residuals throughout the world. This knowledge coupled with our research and operational experience enables SYLVIS to provide our clients with superior advice and innovative solutions that are practical and informed.