What consideration it has given to the use of alkaline hydrolysis as an alternative method for treatment and disposal of infectious animal …

The methods for disposing of animal waste are laid down in the Animal By-Products Order 1999, which implements the EC Animal Waste Directive, 90/667/EEC. The main methods allowed are rendering, incineration or, in certain limited circumstances, burial. Currently, alkaline hydrolysis is not one of the prescribed processes. However, the Scottish Executive is aware of the potential benefits of this method. Assuming the process can be shown to be effective in destroying pathogenic material in animal waste, the next step would be to approach the European Commission with a view to the method being added to the prescribed processes stipulated in the Animal Waste Directive. The Directive is currently being reviewed, and the Executive will bear the process in mind when offering comments on any proposals put forward by the European Commission.