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Who We Are

The Research Hub works alongside the REAL Compost Certification Scheme (CCS) and Biofertiliser Certification Scheme (BCS). CCS and BCS certify compost and digestate to a set of independent quality Standards (PAS 100 and PAS 110). CCS-certified compost and BCS-certified digestate is considered to have achieved end-of-waste and quality assured status.

REAL established the Research Hub to provide research support for technical and regulatory developments related to the production, testing, and use of certified compost and digestate.

What We Do

The Research Hub funds research to support the following objectives:

  • Maintain and improve the robustness of the Schemes (CCS and BCS) and related Standards (PAS 110 and PAS 100)
  • Reinforce confidence in the compost and anaerobic digestion markets
  • Contribute to the development of new markets, including identifying barriers

How It Works

The Research Hub sources research ideas via an open Call for Proposals at the start of each year. CCS and BCS participants are invited to feedback on proposals.

Proposals are then evaluated by an appointed ‘Research Panel’ of organics sector professionals, considering industry feedback.

Selected projects are funded through an annual Research Fee paid by CCS and BCS participants. REAL appoints a contractor to deliver each project. 

Latest News:

  • Deadline for Questions: Tender for Statistical Analysis of Plant Response Tests (30 June)

    Deadline for Questions: Project 4 - Statistical analysis and interpretation of performance data from the UK Tomato Plant Response Test and German Spring Barley Test on CCS CompostA reminder that the deadline for questions in relation to this opportunity to tender is 30th June 2025.  Please send any questions to jackie@recc.orgA Q&A Document for this project will be published on the Research Hub website after the deadline for questions.For full project details, refer to the Tender Invitation Document (TID), here...

    Posted: 23 June, 2025

  • Project 4 Tender Invitation: Statistical Analysis of Plant Response Tests

    The Research Hub is seeking a qualified contractor to undertake a project entitled “Statistical analysis and interpretation of performance data from the UK Tomato Plant Response Test and German Spring Barley Test on CCS Compost.”The project aims toCompare the performance of the spring barley PRT with the tomato PRT on CCS composts with a view to adding the spring barley PRT in future versions of PAS100.Use the spring barley PRT results and compost sample characterisation analysis to better understand tomato PRT performance/failures...

    Posted: 9 June, 2025