Organics Recycling

Welcome to the Association for Organics Recycling’s Certification Scheme for quality composts!

Applying for initial certification ~ key steps

1) If you wish to apply for initial certification, you should firstly:

• download AfOR Certification Scheme Rules from HERE (document 01 of AfOR Certification Scheme Application Pack 2010) or request an electronic copy from AfOR (0870 160 3277, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it );
• request copy of BSI PAS 100 from WRAP helpline 01295 819900; this is the specification which AfOR Certification Scheme is aligned to, so it is crucial that you are aware of its requirements;
• download copy of the Compost Quality Protocol, if you are planning to supply your compost as product for use in England and Wales;

2) You should then read carefully the documents above and check whether you meet all the relevant pre-requisites for applying (section 2.1 of the Scheme Rules). Also,  read carefully the section of AfOR's web site which explains the Compost Quality Protocol requirements for compost supply, storage and use in agriculture and soil-grown horticulture.

3) Then, download the certification scheme application pack from HERE or request a copy from AfOR (0870 160 3277, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ). Read the documents in the pack. Many of the documents are templates in which you should insert your composting process and compost details where prompted (please note that it is not obligatory that you use these templates, you can adapt your own documents if you prefer).

4) Implement your quality management system including the HACCP plan and the Standard Operating Procedures.

5) Start validating your composting process by sampling and testing batches of the compost grade(s) under assessment until three passes for the PAS 100 obligatory parameters have been obtained for the three most recent samples.

6) When you have done so, download the application form from HERE (document 02 of AfOR Certification Scheme Application Pack 2010) and apply by filling in then posting or faxing your application form to your choice out of one of the two certification bodies named below.  You can discuss your prospective application with one or both of these organisations before deciding which certification body you apply to.  Please note by signing the form, you confirm that you have read and agree to all the terms and conditions and requirements specified in AfOR’s Compost Certification Scheme Rules.

Please check with the relevant certification body what records and documentation you are required to provide the CB with in advance of the inspection and what will be checked directly on the day of the inspection.

Consultancy options

The list of Approved Consultants in the application pack (see document n. 22 on HERE identifies those consultants approved to supply such services.