In 2007 The Open University was commissioned by Defra to carry out a major new piece of research on the Attitudes to the Use of Organic Resources on Land.

Steve Evison, R4C's Director, was asked to be on the Advisory Panel for this research, which has now been completed and published on the Defra Website.

This research examines the experiences and perceptions of all those involved in the process of using organic waste-derived material on the land. It focuses on the different types of organic materials such as sewage sludges, composts, digestates, food and plant residues and manures which may be applied in different types of land-use, including agricultural and restoration/reclamation.

The findings from this research will identify the range of different views, the decision making processes involved and any barriers and solutions to the application of organic waste-derived materials to land. The results will be used to develop key messages that will provide an evidence base for informing policy and practice, and contribute to current debates.