"The horticultural chain undergoes constant change, with legislation, regulations, and market forces imposing increasingly stringent sustainability requirements on floriculture, vegetables, and fruit, encompassing both cultivation practices and transparency. This necessitates an adjusted business model wherein sustainability is deeply integrated across the entire organization, from strategy to implementation, enabling companies to enhance their returns and market standing. Sustainability data, improvement plans, and sustainability reporting will play pivotal roles in this transformation.
A significant catalyst for this change is the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which will profoundly impact all companies within the horticultural chain due to the complexity and volume of work involved, as well as the information flows throughout the chain. Large companies will be mandated to prepare a CSRD sustainability report, necessitating sustainability information from all companies upstream and downstream. Those not obligated to produce a CSRD sustainability report must still furnish sustainability information to their clientele. Essential tools in this endeavor include footprints and sustainability certifications compliant with the FSI standard," the Delphy team states.
To support companies in the horticultural sector, Delphy and GTC+ forged a partnership agreement in 2023. GTC+ specializes in project management and advisory services aimed at aiding companies in achieving sustainable outcomes amidst an era of change. Meanwhile, Delphy focuses on knowledge development and implementation, particularly in cultivation methods and techniques.
There is a synergy between GTC+ and Delphy. Delphy's customers seeking sustainability advice can turn to GTC+, while GTC+ clients in need of cultivation expertise can be directed to Delphy. Both organizations contribute independently to (sectoral) research projects aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the horticultural sector or addressing specific challenges. Moreover, they offer a range of services including certification, footprint analysis, data management, sustainability reporting, and assistance in developing sustainable business models.
By leveraging each other's strengths and networks, Delphy and GTC+ aim to not only expand their service portfolios but also enhance their international reach and brand visibility, ultimately driving positive change within the horticultural industry.
Delphy