HORTICERT

Welcome to HORTICERT, our international certification system for sustainable peat substitutes and growing media. By certifying peat substitutes, we promote a largely peat-free growing media industry with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Our Mission: We promote peat substitutes that are used to reduce or replace peat in the growing media sector. Our goal is to encourage the use of sustainable, low-carbon alternatives in both hobby and professional horticulture. Pillars of HORTICERT: Our certification system is based on four pillars: sustainability criteria verification, greenhouse gas calculation, supply chain traceability, and a robust system structure that is originates from a multi-stakeholder dialogue. Sustainability at the Core: HORTICERT ensures environmental, social and economic sustainability along the entire supply chain through digital supply chain tracking. Our standardized method for calculating greenhouse gas emissions allows for comparability of emission results. This enables us to demonstrate the sustainability benefits of our certified peat substitutes. Diverse Certification Range: We certify various peat substitutes ranging from green waste compost to wood-, and coconut-based products. Currently, we work on further criteria to cover all peat substitutes in the future. Sustainable Legacy: The project HORTICERT is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity (BMLEH). Under the leadership of the Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR), Meo Carbon Solutions GmbH is carrying out the project. After the project’s funding ends, HORTICERT will continue as an independent certification system beyond 2025, striving towards a greener future for horticulture and the planet.