On 23 July 2024, the European Commission adopted amendments to the Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR) (EU) 2019/1009, introducing stricter biodegradability criteria for polymers in agricultural applications. From 17 October 2028, only naturally occurring or biodegradable polymers achieving 90% degradation will be permitted. Mulch films must meet stringent standards, including 90% mineralisation within 24 months and passing toxicity tests to protect soil and aquatic health.
The amendments also refine safety limits and testing methods for hazardous pathogens in fertilising products. Effective 20 November 2024, these measures aim to support sustainability goals under the European Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan.
If you need assistance with navigating the EU Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR) – including biostimulant integration, handling borderline cases with plant protection products, and achieving product certification – our Hands-on Guide on Fertilisers and Plant Biostimulants under the Fertilising Products Regulation online training on 13 and 14 March 2025 is your go-to resource for understanding recent regulatory updates and compliance strategies.
Sources:
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32024R2790
https://kerona.ie/news/important-fpr-updates-published-in-the-official-journal-of-the-eu/
