Compost from cardboard

On a misty day in December an international team planted the final trees as part of a pioneering research project taking place in The National Forest. The research is to investigate the production and use of a revolutionary compost, and partners gathered to plant trees in the new material on a site at Woodville near Swadlincote.

The compost is designed to encourage tree establishment and growth on derelict or poor quality land. The site at Woodville which is currently being restored by Tapton Estates fits neatly into this category.

The new material uses two biodegradable but low value products (waste cardboard which would otherwise be destined for landfill use and processed sewage sludge) to produce a sustainable and environmentally sound product.

The research is being conducted by ADAS. Phil Metcalfe, Specialist Waste Management Consultant for ADAS, commented: “We have high hopes that this two-year research programme, funded by Biffaward and Pro Carton, will produce solutions for local authorities to achieve recycling targets and divert waste from landfill. “The development of this compost and the monitoring of its use should contribute to sustainability and benefit future generations by restoring the landscape, developing products from waste and gatheringimportant scientific data through monitoring the establishment of trees in The National Forest.

” Clive Keble, Chief Officer, Land & Project Development, National Forest Company said: “The National Forest Company is delighted to be able to support the other partners in this important piece of research. We very much welcome the trial of new techniques and products as part of the development of The National Forest and hope that the results of the research will be applicable here and in other parts of the country where new woodlands are being created.”