Draft amendments to Iceland’s fertiliser regulation were published for public consultation during the summer of 2026. In the view of Terraforming LIFE, the proposed changes represent very positive developments that support the increased utilisation of organic side streams and provide a clearer framework for the production and use of organic fertiliser products in Iceland.
On behalf of Terraforming LIFE, the Icelandic Farmers Association and Orkídea submitted comments on the draft regulation. The submissions can be accessed here:
One of the most important changes proposed in the draft is the classification of fish sludge as an organic fertiliser product. This provides a clearer basis for treating fish sludge as a resource and supports the development of solutions that recover and recycle valuable nutrients.
The draft regulation also signals a clear commitment by the authorities to establish a framework for the utilisation of organic side streams. In addition, greater emphasis is placed on requirements relating to quality, traceability and safety, which could improve predictability for organisations working on the development and use of such products.
The proposed changes further reflect a shift towards a circular economy approach, where organic side streams are increasingly regarded as resources rather than waste. This perspective can create new opportunities for value creation and for making better use of domestic resources.
“We welcome the positive developments reflected in the draft regulation. In particular, it is important that fish sludge is now classified as an organic fertiliser product, as this can provide a clearer foundation for its future utilisation. It is also encouraging to see a stronger general focus on the use of organic side streams and the establishment of a framework that supports the circular economy,” says Gyða Pétursdóttir, Project Manager of Terraforming LIFE and Representative for Land-based Aquaculture at the Icelandic Farmers Association.
While the draft contains a number of positive improvements, some elements still require further clarification and refinement. The submissions by the Icelandic Farmers Association and Orkídea identify several areas that need additional clarification before the regulation is finalised.
Terraforming LIFE will continue to follow this process closely in cooperation with the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) and the Ministry of Industries, with the aim of supporting a clear and practical regulatory framework that enables the utilisation of organic side streams as valuable resources.
