Open work items

At the last EU Expert Group meeting, which took place on 4–5 December 2025, open questions and new issues regarding the implementation of EU Fertilising Products Regulation (EU) 2009/1019 were discussed, as well as proposals for a draft delegated act to clarify certain rules. ECN took the opportunity to provide feedback on topics related to the requirements for soil improvers.

ECN feedbacks on the Draft Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

One of the remaining open questions relates to the use of liquid residues from the food processing industry as composting and anaerobic digestion input material. ECN welcomes DG GROW's clarification that biowaste can have a 'sludge-like' texture, making it possible to use comparable waste from food processing plants in a liquid phase. Additionally, ECN has requested requirements for the characterisation of an inorganic soil improver.

ECN's feedback on the FAQs can be accessed here: LINK

ECN feedbacks on draft delegated act on clarification of certain rules

One of the Commission's amending proposals relates to the minimum dry matter content requirement for organic soil improvers. In its feedback, ECN emphasises the importance of considering the function of an organic soil improver, which is to maintain, improve or protect the soil’s physical, chemical and biological properties and structure. Additionally, the purpose of an organic soil improver is to maintain and enhance soil organic matter, as well as protect and improve soil structure. This can only be achieved by adding a solid, structured material.

ECN's feedback on the FAQs can be accessed here: LINK