Certifiably sustainab: In conclusion of this series, we focus on savings, ROI and what consumers think

摘要

In Part One of this two-part series, we looked at certification programs now available to Canadian growers, participation levels and some of the differences - among programs. This month we will look closely at savings that stem from becoming certifiedand cost return. We will also consider marketing strategies - checking in again on these angles with two Canadian operations that have become certified. The process of getting certified inherently involves a close examination of input costs, but just how much costs are reduced - and what the return on investment timeline will be - varies among each greenhouse opera tion for a variety of reasons, says John Harrington, commimications manager for Oregon-based Food Alliance (FA), a group that has offered a 'Nursery and Greenhouse Standard' since Mav 2012.