Soil Amendments - Biosolids

Standard BNQ 0413-400
Soil Amendments – Biosolids

Biosolids are an important valuable resource in the sustainable management of residual fertilizing materials (RFMs). Their use not only reduces landfilling and greenhouse gas emissions, but also takes advantage of their agronomic potential for agricultural and horticultural uses.

In order to regulate their quality and safe use, the BNQ 0413-400 Soil Amendments — Biosolids standard has been developed. This new edition, now limited to the Québec context, replaces the previous Canadian-wide version published in 2009.

Scope of the Standard
The standard establishes:
• the requirements for biosolids for use as soil amendments;
• the physical, chemical and microbiological characteristics of these products;
• the sampling and analytical methods to verify compliance;
• the criteria for identifying recoverable biosolids.

It applies to a wider range of materials, now including:
• municipal biosolids;
• biosolids from the pulp and paper industries.

Approach and evolution of the standard
The revision of the standard introduces an updated approach to environmental risk management, based on:
• recognized best practices;
• most recent scientific data.

It also seeks to update certain contaminant thresholds and other parameters based on recent advances in knowledge.

Context and challenges
In the context of the fight against climate change, the valorization of biosolids represents a strategic lever for Québec. By promoting their use as soil amendments, this standard contributes to a more sustainable management of resources while supporting the agricultural and horticultural sectors.