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Warning over risk to horses from plastic granulate
Some granulate may be cross-contaminated with non-plastic elements, which could be harmful to horses and riders.
Substance being sold as an alternative surface for centres 

Horses and riders could be at risk from plastic granulate being sold as an alternative surface for equestrian centres in Yorkshire, the Environment Agency (EA) has warned.

The substance is a waste material derived from recycling cable sheathing and Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). EA says some waste producers and brokers are marketing it as a base material for horse maneges and track surfaces.

However, no legal route is available for its use in this context, unless an Environmental Permit is acquired.

Some plastic granulate may be cross-contaminated with non-plastic elements, such as metal fragments and glass, meaning surfaces containing these could be harmful to horses and riders.

Plastics in these substances can also contain Persistent Organic Pollutants, phthalates and lead stearate. Weathering may cause these to be leached into the environment, potentially contaminating land and ground water.

EA officer Greg Deakin urged people with equestrian facilities to carefully consider the use of this material.

“It might be offered free of charge or for a small delivery fee,” he explained, “but it is an offence under the Environmental Permitting Regulations to use this waste without appropriate environmental controls.

“If you’re found to have plastic granulate waste deposited on your land without the appropriate Environmental Permit awarded by the Environment Agency, you could be fined and be liable for the cost of its disposal.”

EA is advising people to contact them if they are approached and offered this material, if they do not have a suitable Environmental Permit. Tel: 03708 506 506 and ask to speak to your local waste team, or email the details to enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.