MPS, the organization that manages sustainability certification for the international flower and ornamentals industry, awarded MPS-GAP status to the Ball FloraPlant Las Limas production farm in Nicaragua. With MPS-GAP, facilities can promote their “Good Agricultural Practices” through the requirements of traceability, environment, worker safety and site cleanliness. It offers a transparent look at business practices and protocols that benefit suppliers and customers.
Mike Klopmeyer, receiving the certificate from Arthij van der Veer of MPS, at Cultivate'19.
“Ball FloraPlant is thrilled to accept this certification on behalf of its hardworking Las Limas team,” says Ball FloraPlant President Mike Klopmeyer. “We are proud of our dedicated protocols and impressive facility, as well as its managers and committed staff who produce the best cuttings for our customers.”
Las Limas began its MPS journey in 2012 and maintains an MPS-A+ rating, which measures ongoing sustainability efforts.
“It has been a road filled with a lot of energy and effort invested by the whole team at Las Limas. With this certification they have reached a true milestone,” says Arthij van der Veer, MPS General Coordinator for North & Central America. “Having witnessed all the efforts first-hand over the past seven years, it is an honor on behalf of MPS to bestow this achievement, and we look forward to keep improving together.”
MPS worked closely with Las Limas General Manager Alex Meneses. The MPS-GAP checklist includes an inspection of whether equipment is maintained on a regular basis, and how employees handle pesticides and fertilizers. Risk reduction and product traceability are also key standards reviewed for MPS-GAP certification.
Some of the key initiatives of Las Limas that helped earn MPS-GAP include: Maintaining a process on material delivery; upgraded fuel facilities according to national norm NTON 14-024-14; and annual first aid (CPR and Heimlich maneuver) certification brigades and safe chemicals handling certification, which supports the Ball FloraPlant commitment to product traceability, sustainability and safety.
For more information
Ball FloraPlant
www.ballfloraplant.com