System Update of the HORTICERT System Documents now available

We are pleased to announce the System Update of the HORTICERT System Documents (Version 1.0, March 2026). These documents can be found on the HORTICERT-Website. The System Updates reflect international stakeholder input, the latest scientific findings and significant enhancements to the Certification System. The System Update is mandatory for all HORTICERT System Users, HORTICERT Auditors and cooperating Certification Bodies. Previous versions will no longer be available and must not be used. We welcome any feedback on these updates.

Key updates:

Please note, that each System Document contains a dedicated “Summary of Changes” chapter, where all revisions can be reviewed in detail. Please find the main changes below.

01 System Basics:

• • Revised terminology and clarification on system scope 
  • Updated System User roles as well as refined requirements for Certification Bodies and Auditors
  • Revised registration and certification processes, as well as audit procedures 
  • Updated specifications on the use, functionalities and rules of HORTI-TRACE
  • Revised risk management
  • Updated HORTICERT governance, including a new chapter on the Integrity Program and Conflict Resolution 
  • Content on the use of Logos, Seals and Claims has been partly relocated to the HORTICERT Branding Guide for Logos, Seals and Claims
  • Introduction of a new chapter on the HORTICERT Licensing System

02 Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

• • Alignment of the GHG calculation methodology with the Growing Media Europe Environmental Footprint Guideline V2.0 
  • Adjustment of HORTICERT Standard Values
  • Definition of Disaggregated Default Values 

03 Group Certification

• • Clarification of System User roles
  • Specification of Certificate Holder and Group Manager responsibilities 
  • General restructuring of the Group Certification process
  • Defined data collection requirements
  • Update on trainings for Group Managers and Members

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