Defra report states artificial pitches are the main source of intentionally added microplastic pollution in the UK
Fidra are calling for a broad restriction on the use of intentionally added microplastics, as seen in the EU. This should include artificial pitches as the most significant source of intentionally added microplastic pollution in the UK.
Defra research recommends reducing sewage sludge recycling to land as a cost-effective measure to tackle microplastic pollution.
Defra has published a report outlining the outcome of its evidence project on intentionally added microplastics, with recommended options to reduce sewage sludge application to land in the UK.
Fidra’s position on chemical recycling
While chemical recycling may have a supporting role in advancing circular economy goals, Fidra emphasises that limiting plastic production and phasing out harmful chemicals must remain the top priorities. Read our latest position paper on chemical recycling.
The Hidden Cost of Sewage Sludge: Microplastics in Agricultural Soils
Recent research has unveiled that the application of sewage sludge as a fertiliser is significantly increasing microplastic contamination in agricultural soils
New Report: Plugging the Chemical Transparency Gap for a Safer Circular Economy – Furniture supply chains
Our new report highlights the urgent need for chemical transparency throughout furniture supply chains to ensure safe and sustainable product design.
World Soil Day: experts say the UK’s agricultural use of sewage sludge is risking environmental health
On world Soil Day, research by the James Hutton Institute demonstrates that microplastics, organic contaminants and pharmaceuticals in sewage sludge are posing a significant risk to soil organisms, ultimately threatening environmental and human health.
Supporting Sustainable Farming Systems that Work with Nature – GO Falkland 2024.
Fidra attends the 2024 GO Falkland regenerative agriculture event and raises awareness of the presence of harmful chemicals such as PFAS in agricultural inputs (pesticides and biosolids) that threaten sustainable farming systems.
Protect us from pollution: Overhaul UK REACH chemical regulation
How the UK can protect people and our environment from chemicals and pollution
Destroying POPs in waste upholstered domestic seating: SEPA offers guidance on reuse
SEPA has new guidance out advising organisations how to manage persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in waste domestic seating. Read our new blog which highlights challenges faced by recyclers due to the past use of harmful chemical flame retardants in seating.
World Soil Day: How does sewage sludge impact soil health?
Our project ‘Sewage-free Soils’ highlights the presence of chemical contaminants and microplastics within treated sewage sludge, a by-product of wastewater treatment used as fertiliser on agricultural land.