In this article we will not talk about a specific species, but rather we will emphasize the environmental certification exclusive to the ornamental sector, MPS-Sustainable Quality, a little-known topic that we would like to share with our customers, since for 6 years Viveros Sala Graupera has held this certification.
Good agricultural practices seek to guarantee safe, quality products obtained in a sustainable manner. For all this, it requires parameters of traceability, environmental sustainability, social responsibility, quality standards and procedures in the production chain, as well as registration and management of complaints for continuous improvement.
To satisfy and comply with all these requirements, there are certifications like this one, which is exclusive to the ornamental sector.
MPS is a certification audited under international accreditation. Accreditation adds value to products in terms of reliability and international recognition for export purposes, which translates into confidence from buyers.
The MPS scheme considers five factors that directly influence ornamental production and the environmental burden it generates. In its protocol, from the nursery we must register every 4-week period the use made of the following resources:
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Water: Water sources, rainwater capture, recirculation, etc.
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Plant protection products: Plant protection products, of chemical or biological origin or natural enemies, crop protection techniques.
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Energy: Consumption, type of energy used. Own production of renewable electricity. Artificial lighting and heating. CO2 application and energy saving measures.
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Fertilizers: Quantity and types of mineral and organic fertilizers, focusing on the contribution of N and P, also through substrate.
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Waste management: Waste recycling and disposal system.
Four times a year, Sala Graupera receives a rating (A, B, C or Participant).
The rating is calculated from the data of the previous 13 periods (365 days), with points awarded for each section and the total sum ultimately determining the rating.
In the environmental issues “plant protection products”, “fertilizers” and “energy”, consumption is contrasted with consumption parameters objectively established for the company. In the “waste” and “water” topics, the number of points is determined by the scale of waste management and water management.
So far our rating has been the maximum, with the letter A.
Our intention is to continue improving day by day to be able to offer a better product, according to international standards, to the consumer.