Slurry separation technology is nothing new, but the way it can be used is, with new improved separators now capable of producing material dry enough to be re-used as cattle bedding.
There are many perceived advantages to using recycled manure solids (or ‘green bedding’) which must be weighed up against the risks, which is why these 14 controlled conditions (agreed by Defra and Scottish Government in consultation with industry stakeholders - DairyCo, NFU, NFUS, Red Tractor, British Cattle Veterinary Society and DairyUK) MUST be followed to ensure "safe usage" is being demonstrated.
July 2014: **At any time the use of Recycled Manure Solids as bedding can still be stopped by Defra or the Scottish Government should uncontrollable risks to public or animal health emerge.**
Therefore farmers control the short-term future of this new development by following the 14 legal requirements (and 12 best practice recommendations) to prevent potential risks to both human and animal health.
Long-term? Well that depends on future research (a study would take at least two years to complete), government decisions, the evidence produced on UK farms and the way farmers who choose to take this route manage the process!