Veriflora adds peat moss

Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) has expanded its Veriflora sustainability certification and eco-labeling program for plants and cut flowers to include peat moss.

“Peat moss is an extremely important product to the horticulture industry,” said Michael Keyes, who headed up the peat moss standard development process for SCS. “Veriflora certification for responsible management of peatlands will help ensure peat moss customers that this valuable resource is being sustained for future generations.”

SCS developed a comprehensive set of criteria that require Veriflora certified peat moss producers and handlers to manage all of their operations in an environmentally responsible manner. The certification criteria, based in part on the ISO 9001 (quality management systems) and ISO 14001 (environmental management systems) standards, address key environmental protection, social responsibility, and product quality issues.

Fafard et Frères Litée of Québec, Canada, received this certification. Company CEO Martin Fafard said, “We are particularly proud to receive this certification, as it represents the sum of our work as a team and of the efforts put by every one of us. It's a nice recognition of our company's culture and values."

Premier Tech Horticulture Ltd. and Berger Peat Moss Ltd./Les Tourbières Berger Litée have also earned Veriflora certification for their peat moss products.