During a bilateral meeting in Brussels, the Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association (CSPMA) and Growing Media Europe (GME) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on their future cooperation.
Jointly representing the Canadian and the European growing media industry, the associations commit to promoting responsible industry practices both on national and international level, addressing all three pillars of sustainability. The two NGOs agreed on aligning sector terminology and converging communication strategies. The agreed text contains also stipulations on seeking out opportunities to integrate science programs with a focus on responsible management of temperate peatland, environmental life cycle assessment and social responsibility with regards to peat and Growing Media.
In addition, the Memorandum foresees the possibility to develop joint advocacy projects with regards to international policies and conventions that impact the growing media producers both in Canada and in Europe.
“We see common challenges for our sector, growing media are a key enabler for modern and sustainable horticulture. The MoA will allow for a better exchange on how to develop and produce growing media in the most sustainable way. It will strengthen our common voice on international level”, explained Stefaan Vandaele, chairman of Growing Media Europe.
“Peatlands are the resource foundation for our globally important industry. Environmental research, as well as evidence based social and economic values related to the resource and societies wellbeing must be developed and jointly promoted. The MoA provides this mechanism.“ stated Paul Short, President of the CSPMA.