Back in 2021 we wrote a series of posts on the subject…
Equestrian Arena Surfaces – Use of Waste Carpet (Update!) – Eldnar Consultancy
EQUESTRIAN ARENA SURFACES – FULLER RESPONSE FROM THE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY! – Eldnar Consultancy
…and here’s the latest update.
It has recently been reported within the equestrian press that in a briefing to Carpet Recycling UK 9CRUK), the Environment Agency (EA) have said –
“Following a review of the available evidence on chemicals in carpets, the EA has decided to withdraw RPS248 on the use of shredded waste carpet in equestrian surfacing”.
“As a result of our increased knowledge about how carpets are manufactured, the Environment Agency is currently working closely with the carpet recycling industry, including Carpet Recycling UK, on the withdrawal of the regulatory position statement that would allow the use of shredded waste carpet in equestrian surfacing in future,”
“At the current time, owners do not need to take any action, such as removing existing equestrian surfaces containing waste carpet.”
A link to RPS 248 is here for reference: Using shredded waste carpet in equestrian surfacing: RPS 248 – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
In the briefing the EA stated that its decision to withdraw the RPS comes following a review of subsequent evidence and data from CRUK working group members into the “uncertainty on chemicals risk, microplastic releases and non-conforming material contamination” .
It is thought that the new regulations are expected to take effect before the end of the year and, as outlined above, there is no current need for any further action if you have such material within your existing surfaces. There are no further statements available at the time of writing so we will, as always, update you when we find out more and be taking into this account in planning applications for arenas etc. going forward.