Publicly available Documents
This page provides access to flyers, certification guides, fee structures, system documents and factsheets. Please consider that you will have to register as a system user in our Client Section if you are interested in accessing exclusive preparatory materials.
HORTICERT AT A GLANCE
HORTICERT Flyer
The HORTICERT flyer represents a summary of our website. It contains general information about the certification system, our mission and vision. It also provides showcases reasons to replace peat and how reducing peat can contribute to climate protection. Finally, potential system users, the certification process as well as the project background are briefly described.
HORTICERT at a Glance
These documents provide a comprehensive overview of the HORTICERT certification for coconut importers, composting plants, sawmills and growing media mixing plants. The requirements and benefits of certification are explained. In addition, the audit procedure, fee structure and first steps towards certification as well as the option of an individual greenhouse gas calculation are described.
A supply chain-specific overview can be downloaded via the following links:
The HORTICERT Certification Process – Your Step-by-Step Guide
Our HORTICERT step-by-step guide provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the entire certification process. From the initial preparation and registration to the on-site audit, each step is explained in detail.
The guide further provides valuable information on the certification decision, continuous improvement after a successful audit, and the recertification process.
HORTICERT FEES
HORTICERT Fee Structure
This document describes the fee structure of the HORTICERT certification system and provides a detailed overview of the costs incurred.
For more information on company-specific fees, feel free to reach out to us.
SYSTEM DOCUMENTS
System Document – 01 System Basics
The document 01 System Basics lays down the System Basics for the HORTICERT Certification System that was designed for the certification of sustainable peat substitutes and growing media. This module serves as a starting point for System Users, Certification Bodies and other third parties to understand the basics of the Certification System HORTICERT.
This document represents the last published version 0.1 of the first round of the public consultation and will also be made available in German for the second round of the public consultation. The final document version will only be uploaded after the second phase of the public consultation.
System Document – 02 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The document 02 Greenhouse Gas Emissions lays down all information regarding the GHG calculation. It provides insights on the different options for providing GHG information, the requirements for calculating individual GHG emissions, and how the GHG Saving Potential for Growing Media Producers can be determined. It will be primarily relevant for System Users and Certification Bodies.
This document represents the last published version 0.1 of the first round of the public consultation and will also be made available in German for the second round of the public consultation. The final document version will only be uploaded after the second phase of the public consultation.
System Document – 03 Group Certification
The document 03 Group Certification lays down all information about group certifications within the HORTICERT certification system. Group certification is, for example, applicable for farms producing the raw material for peat substitutes, growing media products and for Intermediate Service Providers (ISP) processing the raw materials.
This document represents the last published version 0.1 of the first round of the public consultation and will also be made available in German for the second round of the public consultation. The final document version will only be uploaded after the second phase of the public consultation.
Glossary
The document Glossary provides a detailed overview of all the terms relevant to the HORTICERT Certification System. Table 1 lists all defined HORTICERT terms, while Table 2 illustrates those that are used frequently.
HORTICERT – ADDED VALUE FOR TRADERS
HORTICERT – Added Value for Traders
The demand for sustainable products is growing – among consumers, in legislation, and in corporate communications. Today, offering peat-free potting soils requires more than good intentions: it requires solid proof.
This presentation outlines our motivation, our standards, and the benefits for retail partners who decide to market products with HORTICERT certification.
For more information please contact us via our contact form.
FACTSHEETS AND HANDOUTS
Coconut-based Peat Substitutes
Coconut-based peat substitutes (e.g., coir pith, fibers and chips) are playing an increasing role in the growing media industry. However, as these products are typically imported into Europe, there are often concerns about their sustainability: Can coconut-based growing medium constituents really serve as a sustainable alternative to peat? During the pilot phase, HORTICERT visited several coir producers, conducted greenhouse gas (GHG) calculations and country-specific risk analyses – the results show: Yes, HORTICERT certified coconut-based peat substitutes are a sustainable alternative to peat. You can read more on this topic here:
Sustainability in a Flowerpot – How to Advise Your Customers on the HORTICERT Seal
Discover sustainable gardening with our handout on the HORTICERT certification system. Learn how peat-free and peat-reduced growing media benefit the climate, plants, and peatlands, and get valuable insights about the HORTICERT seal to share with your customers.
HORTICERT Certification supports compliance with EUDR
The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a legal framework introduced by the European Union to combat deforestation and forest degradation linked to the production and consumption of certain commodities. Also peat substitutes, such as wood-based products, are covered by the EUDR. With HORTICERT certification, companies can demonstrate their commitment to meeting a wide range of social, environmental, and economic requirements, supporting compliance with the EUDR. More information about the EUDR and how HORTICERT supports compliance can be found in the attached information sheet.