Bioaerosols

Bioaerosols are naturally occurring bacteria and chemicals found in the air, produced when organic matter, particularly compost, decomposes.  They can also be found in high quantities in woodland and damp buildings. Although most people are unaffected by bioaerosols at normal environmental levels, they are thought to cause respiratory problems, nausea, headaches and fatigue in some people.

There is a body of research which suggests that high levels of bioaerosols are found in greater concentrations in industrial-scale composting as large amounts of vegetation breaks down.  In recent years, there has been a growth in the number of commercial composting sites in the UK. This is because composting is seen to be more environmentally friendly than placing waste in landfill sites. The Environment Agency (EA) is responsible for making sure that commercial composting sites in England and Wales are operated correctly, so that the benefits of composting are maximised, with minimum disruption to local communities.

In November 2010 the EA published a revised position statement [external link] on the potential health effects from bioaerosols from commercial composting sites, containing guidance for permit applicants.  Although there is no new evidence showing that people living within close proximity of composting sites are likely to suffer adverse health effects, the EA decided to take a precautionary approach to permitting and monitoring these large composting sites located close to communities.

To better understand the impacts of high concentrations of bioaerosols on the health of people living and working close to large composting sites, a Health Protection Agency (HPA) group was formed in 2010, to evaluate available information.