2014

CANADIAN SPHAGNUM
PEAT MOSS ASSOCIATION
Industry Social Responsibility Report

2014
CANADIAN SPHAGNUM
PEAT MOSS ASSOCIATION
Industry Social Responsibility Report
 2014
INDUSTRY SOCIAL
RESPONSIBILITY REPORT
Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association
 2014
CSPMA
INDUSTRY SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
(ISR) REPORT PARAMETERS

Year of publication 2014 – It is the first Industry Social Responsibility (ISR) Report of the CSPMA.

Periodicity An ISR Report will be published every three years.

Reporting period Information presented covers the years 2010 to 2012 unless otherwise stated.
Future reference period will be defined in the next ISR Report.

Guideline SAFA Guidelines, version 1.1 (pilot test stage). The ISR Report has been adapted to
the Canadian peat moss sustainable issues.

Scope The ISR Report is published by the Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association
(CSPMA) which represents Canadian peat moss producers.

The ISR Report includes the CSPMA and its members’ activities. Information provided
in this report is from various sources and is focused on the peat moss industry
sustainable issues and covers the year of 2010-2012.

Goals and objectives (defined as “next steps” in this report) have been defined
by and engage only the CSPMA.

Report writing Groupe AGÉCO wrote the ISR Full Report (long version) in collaboration with the Science
Coordinating Committee of the CSPMA. This Full Report is available upon request.

External review The ISR preliminary report version has been reviewed by two external reviewers :

• Methodological aspects have been reviewed by Haykel Najlaoui, GRI certified

trainer Director, Neuvaction;

• Technical aspects have been reviewed by Dr. Michael Keyes, Senior Agriculture
and Natural Resource Specialist, SGS Global Services.

External certificates are available in Appendix 2 “External Review“

of the ISR Full Report.

Contact Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association

2208-13 Mission Avenue
St. Albert (Alberta) T8N 1H6 CANADA
[email protected]
www.peatmoss.com

2 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

 2014
TABLE OF CONTENT

Industry Social Responsibility (ISR) Report parameters. . . . 2 6. Economic performance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Table of content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 6.1 Research investments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Tables and figures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 6.2 Supply chain management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
1. Message from the Board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 6.3 Production capacity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
2. Canadian sphagnum peat moss industry. . . . . . . . . . . . 6 6.4 Demand management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
2.1 Canadian sphagnum peat moss and its 6.5 Market development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
6.6 Local economy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
2.2 A significant resource and an important
6.7 Product information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
economic activity in Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
7. Workers and harmonious cohabitation . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
3. The ISR Report methodology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
7.1 Working conditions and labor rights. . . . . . . . 35
4. Governance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
7.2 Human health and safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
4.1 Corporate ethics and accountability. . . . . . . . . 15
7.3 Cohabitation and relationship with
4.2 Dialogue with stakeholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
aboriginal communities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
4.3 Conformity and best practices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
8. Concluding remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
5. Environmental stewardship. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
5.1 Atmosphere. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Bibliography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
5.2 Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5.3 Peatland management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
5.4 Biodiversity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
5.5 Material resources and energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 3

 2014
TABLES AND FIGURES

LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 – Life cycle stages of peat moss production
and distribution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Table 2 – Geographic break-down of CSPMA members.17
Table 3 – Associations, Committees and Working
Groups in which the CSPMA is involved. . . 18-19
Table 4 – Stakeholders – an overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 – Peat production cycle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Figure 2 – ISR Report realisation steps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Figure 3 – Peatland distribution in Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Figure 4 – Peat production in Canada, average 2008
to 2011. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

4 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

 2014
1 - MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD
OF DIRECTORS

The Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association (CSPMA) includes 14 peat moss producers and
marketers representing 95% of Canada’s total harvesting.
Canada, the world’s largest producer and exporter of sphagnum peat moss for horticultural use, produces
more than 65% of the sphagnum peat moss used in the United States. Imports of peat from Canada
represent 97% of total United States imports and 85% of total Canadian production.
The total annual value of peat moss production in Canada is estimated at $337 million dollars. The
industry generates through its activities approximately $152 million dollars in GDP and provides more
than 3,000 direct and indirect jobs to Canadians all across the country
The industry is recognized as an international leader for its sustainable practices. The VeriFlora®
certification is one of these practices and represents a standard of excellence in responsible management
for peat moss production. Today, at least 65% of the peat harvested in Canada is VeriFlora® certified.
Recently, social and environmental life cycle assessments were conducted to provide for a list of impacts
generated by the sector.
In order to structure and organize the results of the various responsibility initiatives in a coherent and
comprehensive way, the CSPMA decided to produce a first Industry Social Responsibility (ISR) Report.
The publication of the ISR Report is meant to communicate the work done so far, as well as the sector’s
upcoming commitments.
To ensure the rigour and objectiveness of its reporting initiative, the CSPMA joined a Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO)’s project aiming at developing a social and environmental sustainable
reporting methodology adapted for the agricultural sector known as the Sustainability Assessment of
Food and Agriculture Systems (SAFA). The FAO has accepted the CSPMA’s reporting project as one of
twenty global pilot initiatives participating to the advancement of the SAFA Guidelines.
With all these initiatives, the Canadian peat moss industry aims at remaining the worldwide sustainable
practices leader in the sphagnum peat moss production and an example for its social responsibility
practices. For the coming years, priorities are to:
• support sustainability research in environmental areas that are impacted by peat moss industry,

• ensure that restoration of post-harvest sites are conducted by the CSPMA’s members in accordance with
government compliance, and

• enhance close, positive and supportive relationships with various levels of government and with First
Nations and Métis communities, and engage in constructive dialogue with NGOs and consumers.

We are pleased to communicate our first Industry Social Responsibility report.

Paul Short
President
Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 5

 2014
2 - CANADIAN SPHAGNUM
PEAT MOSS INDUSTRY
1
1 Ensuring proper drainage
2.1 CANADIAN SPHAGNUM
Drainage ditches are dug around and within
PEAT MOSS AND ITS the development site to drain a portion of the

FEATURES peatland’s water.

2 Removing surface vegetation

Sphagnum peat moss is a natural resource formed by the 2
decomposed part of Sphagnum moss or other plants that grow Surface vegetation is removed using a
in bogs. The process of peat formation, which takes place rotovator, giving access to the peat deposit.
over centuries, consists in the accumulation of vegetation Plant fragments can be collected as donor
material in wetlands called peatlands. Peat moss has a large material to restore other sites.
cell structure that enables it to absorb air and water like a
sponge. Although peat moss does not contain nutrients, it 3 Levelling the ground
absorbs nutrients added to or present in the soil, releasing
them over time as the plants require. A leveller is used to evenly shape the ground
and to crown it to facilitate drainage and drying.

In a nutshell, peat moss is a natural, organic soil 4 Preparing the field

conditioner that regulates moisture and air
around plant roots for ideal growing conditions Sun and wind are required to dry the surface peat
making it a prized component of the horticulture layer before harvesting. An uppermost layer is
usually harrowed to disrupt capillary flux (a process 3
and floriculture industry.
called milling), which accelerates the drying process.

• 1.14 million tons of peat is harvested on a yearly basis in

2.2 A SIGNIFICANT Canada (Natural Resources Canada, 2011).

RESOURCE AND AN • Eastern provinces (Ontario, Québec, New Brunswick, Nova

IMPORTANT ECONOMIC
Scotia and Prince Edward Island) account for grossly 75% of
the Canadian production and Western provinces (Alberta,
ACTIVITY IN CANADA Saskatchewan and Manitoba) for 25% (Natural Resources
Canada, 2011).

• In Canada, sphagnum peat moss is harvested mainly for • Peat moss is an essential input used in the multi-billion dollar
horticultural purposes. The situation is different elsewhere: North American horticultural industry. Imports of peat moss
approximately 50% of world production is for energy use from Canada represent 97% of total United States peat moss
namely in countries such as Finland, Russia, Ireland, Sweden imports and 85% of total Canadian production (USGS, 2012).
and to a lesser extent in Eastern Europe (USGS, 2012; IPS, • Peat moss production in Canada generates sales of
pers. comm.). approximately $337 million dollars (CIRAIG and Groupe
• Canada’s overall peatland resource base is estimated at AGÉCO, 2012).
113.6 million hectares (Tarnocai et al., 2011). Of this land, • The peat industry contributes $152 million dollars to
81% is in natural state and only 0.02% has been or is currently Canada’s GDP and provides 3,000 direct and indirect jobs to
used for peat moss production (Environment Canada, 2013). Canadians all across the country. Rural areas of the country
• Over 20 million tons of peat accumulates each year in benefit most from the economic activity generated by peat
Canadian peatlands (Carlson et al., 2010). moss harvesting and production (CIRAIG and Groupe AGÉCO,
2012).

6 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

Figure 1 - Peat production cycle

5 Drying and collecting

One to three days later, the dry peat layer is
collected using large vacuum harvesters or other
equipment. The peat is transported to a processing
facility for screening and packaging. Often, peat is
combined with other ingredients such as compost,
6 7
bark, fertilizer, etc.

6 Restoring peatlands
At the end of the development cycle, the harvest
site can be restored, meaning the vegetation cover
is re-established and the peatland recovers its
capacity to accumulate carbon.

7 Rehabilitation of peatlands
5
The closure of a site may involve its rehabilitation
towards another type of environment, which is
generally the case where conditions do not allow
for the restoration of a peatland ecosystem.
Examples of rehabilitation: berry crops, forest
4 plantations, marsh creation.

7
 2014
3 - THE ISR REPORT
METHODOLOGY

SAFA GUIDELINES
The ISR Report methodology is a structured approach based
on SAFA methodology (test version 1.1). SAFA provides an
SAFA:
international reference tool for assessing the sustainability
an international reference tool for assessing the
performance of food and agriculture enterprises. The SAFA
framework begins with the high level, supra dimensions of sustainability performance of agri-food systems
sustainability: good governance, environmental integrity, The SAFA Guidelines were developed as a working proposal
economic resilience and social well-being. Each dimension for assessing the impact of food and agriculture operations.
contains related themes and sub-themes. Chapters of this
SAFA offers a holistic framework that encompasses all
ISR Report are structured according to these themes. Some
aspects of sustainable agricultural activities. It is built
sub-themes have been adapted to the Canadian and the
mainly on existing sustainability schemes, creating
sectorial specific context. For example, in the environmental
dimension, the theme “Peatland management” replaces in opportunities for businesses to use existing data and
this report the original theme “Land” identified in the SAFA combining efforts with other tools and sustainability
Guidelines, since the issues of managing wetland and peatland initiatives. By providing a transparent and aggregated
differ significantly from those of “uplands“. Sub-themes have framework for assessing sustainability, SAFA seeks to
been reviewed accordingly. harmonize sustainability approaches within the food supply
chain (FAO 2012). It is hence a rigorous, credible and
structuring initiative for the agri-food sector, worldwide.

The SAFA Guidelines have been developed in a

THE ISR REPORT APPROACH participatory process involving different sectorial and
This ISR Report was a first experience for the CSPMA in selecting institutional partners. A pilot has also been conducted
sustainable issues and collecting the relevant information. The with the participation of 23 organizations from all around
report includes the VeriFlora® requirements and results from the world. The CSPMA was one of them – and the only
the peat moss environmental and social life cycle assessments. representative of the peat moss industry. That participation
The board of directors and the Science Coordinating Committee
gave the CSPMA and its members the opportunity to structure
of the CSPMA were involved in carrying out the ISR Report and
the sector’s ISR Reports based on the SAFA Guidelines
defining priority objectives (defined as “next steps” in this ISR
(version 1.1), but also to contribute to the Guidelines
Report).
development by providing recommendations to the FAO to
improve and adapt them according to the peat moss reality
and concerns. The final version of the Guidelines has been
released in December 2013 and is available online on the FAO
website. As an early member of the SAFA community, the
CSPMA will continue working with the FAO and its partners in the
application and further development of this international
reference tool.

8 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

About VeriFlora® and the
Environmental and Social LCA
VeriFlora® Responsibly managed peatlands Certified companies must pass an annual evaluation by a
third party independent certification.
is an international standard which aims
the restoration of wetlands, the promotion of Environmental Life cycle assessment (E-LCA), within an
ISO standard framework, is an internationally recognized
social responsibility among peat moss producers
approach that evaluates the potential environmental and
and the maintenance of the use of peat for human health impact associated with products and services
horticultural production. Certified horticultural throughout their life cycle, from raw material extraction,
peat producers must respect the general including transportation, production, use, and end-of-life
treatment. Among other uses, LCA can identify opportu­nities
criteria of the VeriFlora® standard as well as the
to improve the environmental performance of products at
criteria specific to their sector that fall under the various points in their life cycle, inform decision-making,
following seven themes: and support marketing and communication efforts.

Social LCA (S-LCA) is a new tool based on the PNUE/

• Responsible peatland management; SETAC’s Guidelines for social life cycle assessment of
products (2009) that provides a socioeconomic
• Ecosystem conservation and protection;
assessment of the organizations involved in a product’s
• Conservation of resources and energy efficiency; life cycle. It focuses on businesses’ behaviour and on the
relationships they have with their stakeholders, such
• Integrated management of waste material; as their workers, the local community, etc. in regards
• Labour standards; to a list of social issues of concern, going from working
conditions and local engagement, to procurement policy
• Benefits for the community; and environmental practices.
• Product quality.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 9

 • The need for transparency and communication
EXTERNAL STAKEHOLDERS
regarding the efforts made by the peat moss industry
CONSULTATION IN QUÉBEC towards sustainable practices;
The Québec Peat Moss Producers Association (Association des
• Integrated land management appears to be a way to
producteurs de tourbe horticole du Québec – APTHQ), with the
ensure better impact management and maximize
participation of three peat moss producers, conducted in spring
benefits to the community;
2013 a focus group to consult their external stakeholders about
the ISR initiative process. AGÉCO conducted the consultation • Water conservation and peatland restoration are
at Rivière-du-Loup (Québec). Consumers, environmentalist essential for better environmental peatland management;
groups, local community organization representatives, peat • Research and development as well as product
moss producers and representatives from the APTHQ and diversification would enhance the peat moss industry’s
CSPMA met all together for the first time. The objective was global market positioning;
to identify and prioritize peat moss sustainable issues and
• Peat moss production social acceptability through
propose recommendations to the APTHQ and its members.
protection measures and awareness is an important issue
The 2013 APTHQ Social Responsibility report (available soon)
to promote a good relationship with local communities.
will present the stakeholder consultation synthesis. The main
issues raised during the focus group were the following: The CSPMA took into consideration these concerns and set
its social responsibility goals and objectives consequently.
In its next ISR Report, the CSPMA is committed to conduct a
similar initiative at the Canadian level.

THE ISR REPORT REALISATION STEPS

This first ISR Report has been conducted in various structured steps following the SAFA Guidelines requirements (test version 1.1).

A complete description of the realisation steps can be found in the Full Report, available upon request.

10
THE ISR SCOPE
The assessment covered all operations taking place during production, transformation and distribution stages of horticultural
sphagnum peat moss life cycle.
The “use” and the “end of life” steps were not taken into account in the LCA reports because they were too complex to capture at
that time. These areas will need further examination in the future LCA assessment discussions.
The ISR Report belongs to the CSPMA that represents the Canadian peat moss industry and its 14 peat moss producer members.

Table 1 – Life cycle stages of peat moss production and distribution

Production Conditioning Distribution Use (excluded) In situ decomposition

Harvest Packaging Transport Plant growth Oxidation

This first life cycle stage Conditioning includes The distribution stage As already noted, it is Peat decomposition
includes the various the various activities includes transportation difficult to separate at the harvesting site
production activities that take place at the operations from distinct processes and (peatland) is not a life
taking place at peat plant, after harvesting. It con­ditioning plants to their environmental cycle stage in itself.
harvesting sites on includes the equipment, final buyer markets or effects that are However, draining
peatlands. The produc- infrastructure and energy distribution centers associated with peat the peatland modifies
tion stage takes account required for conditioning (shipment lots, from other components its greenhouse gas
of equipment and machin­­ peat. After screening, wholesale outlets of plant growth. (GhG) fluxes: there is a
ery operation, access mixing with other com- or retailers). Therefore, the following reduction in methane
roads construction, site ponents, compression were not taken into (CH4) production and
drainage, ground surface and packaging of the account: all resource an increase in carbon
preparation, vacuum peat generally occurs. consumption and waste dioxide (CO2) emissions,
harvesting and site The infrastructure and production resulting resulting in a net positive
closure operations at the energy associated with from horticulture GhG emission to the
end of the production the operation of admin­ activities at the green- atmosphere. The site’s
cycle. Transportation istrative buildings are house or garden (namely, GhG fluxes may return to
between the harvesting also taken into account greenhouse space a carbon accumulation
site and the conditioning in this stage. heating and air humid­ dynamic similar to
plant is also included. ification, watering and the one that existed
fertilization). before harvesting if the
peatland is successfully
restored at the end of
the production cycle.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 11

 INDICATORS, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
OF THE ISR
SAFA Guidelines define many types of indicators:
• Performance-based indicators: also called results-oriented
or outcome indicators. Performance based indicators are
focused on the results of compliance with an objective and
can measure the performance of an operation, identify
trends and communicate results.
• Practice-based indicators: also called prescriptive or process
indicators. These indicators are focused on prescribing the
necessary tools and systems required to be in place, for best
practices. These indicators are process-oriented rather than
outcome-oriented. These indicators assume that having
management systems in place leads to better management
of environmental or health and safety issues.
• Target-based indicators: these indicators focus on whether
the operation has plans or policies with targets and ratings
based on steps towards implementing them.
In this ISR Report, most of indicators presented are
practice-based indicators and rely on the S-LCA, E-LCA
data and the VeriFlora® requirements. Some SAFA indicators
have been adjusted or added to ensure more consistency in
the industry reporting performance. The CSPMA has not
defined performance-based indicators or target-based
indicators. However, the organization plans on defining some
performance-based indicators for future ISR Reports.
For this report, the CSPMA defined specifically designed
social responsibility objectives for each covered themes or
sub-themes defined as “next steps“. Objectives are specific
actions to be carried out in order to improve the degree of social
responsibility of the organization and the peat moss industry
as a whole.

12 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

Figure 2 – ISR Report realisation steps
(1) Define goal Meeting with
and scope the SCC

(2) Adapt the SAFA tool

SAFA Guidelines testing / Rome
workshop
with FAO

(3) Select rel­ Meeting with

evant indicators the SCC to review
and data the preliminary
collection ISR Report

(4) Definition of Semi-annual

the social meeting - preliminary
responsibility version of the ISR
objectives Report

(5) ISR External

final report review process
redaction

External
publication of
the ISR Report

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 13

 2014
4 - GOVERNANCE

14
Governance is the process of making and implementing
decisions. According to the SAFA Guidelines, an organization
committed to sustainable development needs a sustain­
CSPMA’s mission
ability-oriented governance structure. Content, values and statement and main goals
responsibilities of the organization’s governance must be
clearly stated and transparency and accountability are to be MISSION STATEMENT
ensured. Such a process facilitates active participation of all
stakeholders. Further elements include a strict orientation CSPMA is an association of peat producers and related
towards legitimacy and the rule of law as well as a rigorous enterprises devoted to promoting the sustainable
sustainability management. A business purpose that management of Canadian peatlands and the industry.
contradicts or ignores the sustainability principle will not It provides advocacy and promotion for its members
lead to a sustainably operating enterprise in the long run and leadership in environmental and social stewardship
(FAO 2012). and economic well-being related to the use of Canadian
peatland resources.
The CSPMA represents the sphagnum peat moss industry
in Canada since 1988. The association acknowledges its
responsibility toward sustainability and its stakeholders, as MAIN GOALS
demonstrated by its participation in numerous committees Finance
and its open, transparent and democratic structure. Sustain­
To achieve financial autonomy with sufficient resources
able development is clearly stated and defined in CSPMA’s
to carry on all programs, without overburdening
mission.
members.
Government

4.1 CORPORATE ETHICS To establish and/or enhance close positive and

supportive relationships with various levels of govern-
AND ACCOUNTABILITY ment to ensure input into matters of concern to the
industry.
Founded to promote the benefits of peat moss to professional Research
growers and home gardeners throughout North America, the
To support sustainability research in areas of environ­
CSPMA is a representative, democratic and socially engaged
mental interests and other areas that impacts the
organization comprised of 14 peat producers and marketers
horticultural peat industry.
representing 95% of Canada’s total production. Canada is the
world’s largest producer and exporter of sphagnum peat for Responsibility to members
horticultural use. Exports to the United States alone account To be responsive and to provide advocacy to members in
for 85% of total Canadian production. matters relating to the peat moss industry.

MISSION STATEMENT Community responsibility

The mission statement and goals of the association were To ensure restoration, reclamation, resource steward­
adopted in a long-term perspective to promote a sustainable ship and best practices are conducted by the association’s
development of the industry. members.
Communication and public relations
To enhance the image and the understanding of the peat
moss industry.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 15

 REPRESENTATIVENESS, DUE
DILIGENCE AND RESPONSIBILITY

The CSPMA board of directors comprises eight representa- The CSPMA brings together fourteen members (2013) operating
tives including the President. The board is mainly composed throughout North America: twelve Canadian and two American
of producers and suppliers from the industry. In addition companies. Some are rather small businesses that concentrate
to their legal obligations in regards to due diligence as solely on harvesting peat moss. Others are much larger and
board members, environmental and social aspects are integrate value-added products for end users. Membership also
considered on a regular basis by the directors. includes bag suppliers and affiliate members of the service and
supply companies of the industry.

CSPMA also participates actively in several working groups and committees focusing on research, industry coordination and
environmental issues. This participation enables the association and the industry members to identify, discuss and take action on
social, environmental and economic issues with a vast array of industry, government and academic representatives, all over the
country (table 3).

16
Table 2 - Geographic break-down of CSPMA members
(excluding bag suppliers and affiliate members)

CANADA USA

New Brunswick
Members

Massachusetts
Saskatchewan
Nova Scotia

Minnesota

Wisconsin
Manitoba
Ontario
Québec

Alberta
PEI

Acadian Peat Moss

*
Alaska Peat
*
Annapolis Valley Peat Moss
*
ASB Greenworld
*
Berger
*
Fafard et Frères / Heveco
*

Jiffy Company
*
Lambert Peat Moss
*
Nirom Peat Moss
*
Northwoods Organics *
Premier Tech Horticulture /
Premier Tech Home & Garden *
Sun Gro Horticulture *

Sunterra Horticulture
*
Theriault & Hachey
Peat Moss *
Note: The symbol identifies where peat harvesting operations take place, Source: CSPMA
while the sign * indicates in what province or state the Head Office is located.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 17

 Table 3 – Associations, Committees and Working Groups
in which the CSPMA is involved

Committees Description / Activities

ACCORD Peat Moss & The Québec Peat Moss Producers Association (APTHQ) coordinates the Peat Moss
Agri-environmental & Agri-environmental Cluster, which was formed through an agreement between the
Cluster Committee Québec government and the peat moss industry under the ACCORD Program. The
Cluster gathers businesses, some governmental departments, research centers and
regional development agencies. The activities of the Cluster follow an action plan
directed at supporting the development of businesses in the sector and are carried
out by its members through unifying projects. The Cluster includes a scientific
committee as well as a communication committee.

Alberta Task Force and Managed by the CSPMA, members (producers) of both Alberta and Manitoba provinces are
Manitoba Task Force regrouped under task forces to perform a review of industry issues and evaluate policies
and regulations that impact companies specifically within these two provinces. This work
involves direct communication with government representatives.

Canadian Business and The CBBC is a government-business-NGO-academia partnership that assists businesses
Biodiversity Council (CBBC) in conserving biodiversity. The CBBC supports good environmental stewardship practices
based on sound science by sharing best practices and lessons learned, and by showcasing
successful results.

Canadian Food Inspection The CSPMA collaborates with CFIA on issues related to export and regulatory
Agency (CFIA) requirements.

Coastal Zone Research The CZRI provides support to the peat industry by getting involved in resource research
Institute (CZRI) as well as in industry products and development. The current peat industry research
orientations at the CZRI are:
• Second economic life of peat and peatlands
• Development of new products
• Conservation and peatland restoration
• Harvesting and horticultural peat processing

Environment Canada (EC) CSPMA and EC collaborate regularly on different aspects related to peatlands and GhG
emissions. Recently, EC has undertaken a joint project to evaluate the anticipated and
potential activity levels on land subject to peat management under various scenarios.
Virtual cases of GhG emission reduction or carbon sequestration increase are developed
and compared to the business-as-usual scenario.

18 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

 Committees Description / Activities

International Peat Society IPS is a global non-governmental and a non-profit organization aimed at fostering the study
(IPS) of peatlands, mires and peat. It serves as a forum to get and to keep experts from various
fields that deal with peat and peatlands in touch with each other. They come from business,
science, culture and regulatory bodies.

Peatland Ecology Research For over 20 years, PERG, a multidisciplinary research group, has led the most important
Group (PERG) research program in collaboration with the peat moss industry. The program is currently
funded through the NSERC Industrial Research Chair in Peatland Management and the
Collaborative Research and Development Grant. PERG investigates questions that arise
directly from the industry on matters such as biodiversity, water and carbon exchanges in
peatlands.
PERG is based at Laval University (Québec, QC) and also includes researchers from McGill
University (Montréal, QC), University of Waterloo (ON) and University of Calgary (AB).
The third term of the research program (2013-2018) covers the following four topics:
• Land-use management
• Evaluating the restoration success
• Assessment of hydrological functions
• Carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas exchanges

Science Coordinating The Science Coordinating Committee of the CSPMA works on harmonizing provincial and
Committee (SCC) of national research programs. The SCC ensures the research coordination, prioritizes and
the CSPMA recommends specific projects and research investment. The SCC is composed of industry
representatives from associations and companies.
Over the next years, the SCC will work to enlarge and consolidate a network between
various stakeholders and experts that may comprise representatives of research
organizations, governmental organizations, NGOs, other industrial sectors of interest
and First Nations.

TRANSPARENCY
The CSPMA does not hold a formal policy on transparency nor has a formal procedure to deal with requests for information. Such
requests are currently processed case by case. The association does provide however on their website a vast array of information
and resources regarding the Canadian peat moss industry, its activities and products, as well as on specific issues such as the
conservation and restoration of peatlands. The association also publishes internally an annual report describing its various
activities and outcomes.
The results of most studies and surveys conducted by the CSPMA are also made public (for example, all publications under the
Industrial Research Chair can be found on the PERG website – www.gret-perg.ulaval.ca). The publication of this first ISR Report is
meant to enhance the transparency and ease the communication of the CSPMA’s performance to its stakeholders.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 19

 Next steps – Corporate ethics and accountability
CSPMA will:
• Maintain its engagement in the examination of the social, environmental and economic issues of concern for the industry and
relate them to the relevant working group / committee in order for them to be adequately covered.
• Publish an ISR Report every three years and name a person responsible for the follow up on the engagements and objectives.
• Facilitate the definition of performance-based indicators for the industry to be used in the subsequent ISR Reports of the CSPMA.
• Work collaboratively with provincial associations and companies to carry out benchmark sustainability surveys to support the
publication of the next ISR Reports (every three years).
• Provide access to the Annual Report online.
• Adopt a transparency policy defining the process through which information about the association and its activities are made
publicly available.

4.2 DIALOGUE WITH Table 4 – Stakeholders – an overview

STAKEHOLDERS Aboriginal and local communities

As with the issue of sustainable development, many different Consumers

stakeholders may be affected by the producer’s decisions and • Commercial growers
activities. In the SAFA context, an organization is expected • Greenhouse operators
to pro-actively identify stakeholders, which include all those • Retailers
affected by the activities of the producers (including any • Gardeners
stakeholders unable to claim their rights), and ensures that Members
all are informed, engaged in critical decision making, and that • Peat moss producers
their input is duly considered. • Bag suppliers and affiliated members
Through its mission and activities, the CSPMA is engaged in an Environmental interest groups
ongoing dialogue with various stakeholders. The association • Duck Unlimited Canada
has not yet performed a formal and systematic process of • Canadian Wildlife Federation
identifying and consulting its stakeholders in a social • International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
responsibility perspective. Some initiatives have however • The Canadian Business and Biodiversity Council (CBBC)
already been accomplished in that direction. For instance, the Governments (at the international, national
actors who have a stake in the CSPMA and the peat moss and provincial levels)
industry have been broadly defined in the S-LCA study. • Environment Canada
VeriFlora® certified producers must conduct a meeting at least • Natural Resources Canada
once a year with community representatives. The agenda is • Canadian Food Inspection Agency
communicated and an opportunity for discussions related to • Various government committees
concerns on current operations and opportunities provided. International organizations
For its first ISR Report, the CSPMA (with the participation of • International Peat Society (IPS)
the Science Coordinating Committee) has identified its main • Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
stakeholders (see table 4). (FAO)
• Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Natural resource industries
Next step – Dialogue with stakeholders
• Forest Product Association of Canada (FPAC)
CSPMA will: • Hydro-Québec
• Identify stakeholders more precisely, build bridges between Scientific community
them and conduct a stakeholder consultation for the next • The Peatland Ecology Research Group (PERG), including
ISR Report. researchers from Laval University, McGill University
• University of Waterloo and University of Calgary
• University of Guelph
• Coastal Zone Research Institute (CZRI)

20 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

4.3 CONFORMITY AND BEST INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS AFFECTING
THE PEAT MOSS INDUSTRY – EXAMPLES
PRACTICES The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) gives guidelines to national agencies (as Environment
Businesses and organizations are expected to act in compliance Canada) to account for GhG emissions by sources and removals
with legislation. One of the responsibilities of the CSPMA is by sinks. This is based on the “Wetland Drainage and Rewet-
to be responsive and provide advocacy in order for its members ting” (WDR) activity under Article 3.4 of the Kyoto Protocol. The
to apply, respect and be accountable to the laws under which article indicates that Annex I countries such as Canada can use
they operate. The association also supports the adoption of peatland rewetting to meet their emissions reduction targets.
best and leading practices that go beyond legal compliance. With this decision, peatlands and organic soils are recognized
To do so, the CSPMA works and collaborates at the provincial, by the international climate change organizations as an
national and international levels with producers, governments accountable factor and potential target for mitigation action.
and institutions to support them in the application and
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
development of laws, regulations, policies, standards and
also produced guidelines that are currently in use under the
certifications for the industry.
UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol. The IPCC recently released the
“Supplement to 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National GhG Inven-
tories: Wetlands”. This supplement is intended to help parties
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE in their annual reporting to the UNFCCC of greenhouse gas
Each individual peat moss producer is responsible for the emissions and removals from the land use sector. The CSPMA,
application and the respect of the provincial and national via its Science Coordinating Committee, benefits from the
legislations under which it operates. However, the CSPMA consulting opportunity to submit comments on this issue.
provides support to industry through regulatory monitoring and
The National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans
representation in various government committees at national
(NBSAP) are the principal instruments for implementing the
and provincial levels.
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) at the national level.
The CSPMA is also in charge of representing the Canadian The Convention requires countries to prepare a national
peat moss industry at the international level to ensure – in biodiversity strategy (or equivalent instrument) and to ensure
collaboration with governments – its compliance with the that this strategy is mainstreamed into the planning and
various international conventions covering peat moss activities of all sectors whose activities can have an
production activities. The CSPMA is also actively involved in impact (positive and negative) on biodiversity. The business
the discussions surrounding the elaboration and application of communities have also been engaged to advance the
these international initiatives. achievement of the CBD. In Canada, the CBBC has been
established to work in support of the Canadian objectives for
biodiversity. The Canadian peat industry is contributing to this
initiative by providing a Peat Industry Business Case Study
and as a member of the Board of Directors of the CBBC.

INDUSTRIAL COMPLIANCE
CSPMA participated in standard development for the VeriFlora® certification. As of now, at least 65% of the peat harvested in
Canada is VeriFlora® certified.

Next steps – Conformity and best practices

CSPMA will:
• Aim for national consistency of legislation affecting the peat industry and the peatland resource.
• Stay engaged in the development of international conventions, continue informing and mobilizing our members on these
developments and engage industry colleagues where appropriate.
• Target a 75% level of VeriFlora® certified Canadian peat harvested.
• Keep supporting best practices and certification among members while monitoring the adequate tools for sustainability by
referring to the issues covered within this ISR Report.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 21

 2014
5 - ENVIRONMENTAL
STEWARDSHIP

22
Since the late 1980s, the Canadian peat moss industry has placed environmental stewardship in the forefront of its strategic
planning, research and activities. Protecting ecosystems and rehabilitating bogs are considered essential to responsible
management and sustainable development of the sector. The CSPMA has developed policies to ensure appropriate harvesting
and restorative actions by its members and the adoption of best environmental sustainability practices.
As of now, all CSPMA members have taken an official stand and engagements on environmental and social responsibility
issues. Moreover, 50% of the CSPMA members have obtained the VeriFlora® certification (which represents at least 65% of the
production).
In 2010, a first environmental life cycle assessment (E-LCA) was conducted in order to evaluate rigorously the
environmental impacts of peat moss production (CIRAIG 2010). The report was updated in 2012 (CIRAIG and Groupe AGÉCO,
2012). The assessment covered all operations taking place during production, transformation and distribution stages of the
horticultural sphagnum peat moss life cycle. Impacts on atmosphere, water and biodiversity were considered as well as
peatland management and resource and energy uses. The scope of the study excluded the uses and end of life phases.
So-called secondary functions of the system namely by-products and sub-products of the peat were also excluded of the
assessment.
As previously stated, the E-LCA results, built on 20 years of environmental research in peat moss production are widely used
to document this ISR Report.

Next steps – Greenhouse gases emissions

5.1 ATMOSPHERE
CSPMA will:
The industry is aware that the sphagnum peat moss • Continue collaborating on an ongoing basis with provincial,
production activities generate greenhouse gases and other national and international organizations to assess and
pollutants. The 2012 life cycle assessment reveals that peat manage GhG emissions.
harvesting, processing and distribution create emissions due to
• Support members to adopt GhG emissions calculation tools
changes in land use, use of machinery, transportation and peat
and to achieve GhG reduction targets by:
decomposition. The emissions released into the air can have an
impact on the environment as well as on human health. ◊ Continuing to be engaged/invest in research in GhG
emissions, mitigation measures and climate change;

GREENHOUSE GASES (GHG) ◊ Supporting restoration as a best management practices at

the closure of production.
• Over its life cycle, the production of peat moss in Canada
generates GhG at a level of 86.4 kg of CO2e/m3 of peat.
AIR QUALITY AND HUMAN HEALTH IMPACTS
• Over half the emissions are related to the non-restoration
of many older non-rehabilitated peat fields (58% of total • Over its life cycle, peat moss production emits NOx, which
GhG emissions). It appears that during the decomposition of are gases produced during combustion that have a negative
residual non-rewetted peatlands, oxidation of organic matter prevalence on the respiratory system. These emissions are
releases CO2 direct emissions. largely due to transportation from the harvesting site.

• Distribution and on-site transportation of peat to the point • VeriFlora® certification calls upon producers to minimize air
of sale also generates GhG emissions (13.5% of total GhG emission impacts during harvesting process.
emissions).
• Restoration practices reduce emissions and even revert Next step – Air quality and human health impacts
them to the point that restored peatlands remove CO2 from
CSPMA will:
the atmosphere (sink function).
• The VeriFlora® standard requires producers to measure and • Support best practices and development of clean air
manage GhG emissions. technology.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 23

 5.2 WATER
Bogs and fens are an integral part of surrounding landscape ecosystems and they play a role in hydrological balance. Draining
a section of the peatland for harvesting may lower the perched water table in the bog. Also, the outflow of the draining system
must be managed to limit the amount of peat sediment that leaves the site.

WATER QUANTITY AND QUALITY Next steps – Water quantity and quality
• According to the E-LCA, the drainage of the peatland for peat CSPMA will:
harvesting represents 75% of the impact on water while the • Support research and improve knowledge on hydrology in
remaining 25% pertained to life cycle water uses attributed general (water quantity and quality).
to other activities such as transportation, packaging and road
construction. • Help peat moss producers improve water quality
namely through investment in water quality research and
• Different minerals already present in the environment can be development projects.
recirculated into the drainage water and suspended particles
can have an impact in the water.
• Transportation and harvesting are responsible for 68% of
“aquatic acidification” LCA category of impact due to the use
of equipments.
• Drainage, hydrology and water quality plans are compulsory
for all VeriFlora® certified producers. All certified peat-
lands have water quality management programs in
place, commonly with two-stage sedimentation basins,
specific water quality goals that exceed governmental
requirements and, in many cases, use land treatment to
avoid water contaminants or water quality degradation.
VeriFlora® certified producers maintain auditable records
of water quality monitoring that are based upon a written
protocol for water sampling and analysis.

24
5.3 PEATLAND MANAGEMENT
Essential ecological characteristics are needed for accumulation of peat and development of peatlands. These special lands
require appropriate management. A responsible peatland management strategy aims to provide future viability of the peatland
ecosystems even if it may be decades away. Such strategy implies developing and adopting environmentally sound
harvesting methods, restoring peatlands at the end of operations and minimizing the sources of pollution through production
and distribution stages.

ORGANIC MATTER CHARACTERISTICS • A joint study on peatland restoration was produced by

Environment Canada.
• Peat is characterized by a high content of organic matter and
• Other research projects related to conservation and after-use
carbon (50% of its weight).
have also been undertaken at provincial levels or by specific
• There are many types of peat, depending on several factors companies.
such as the type of vegetation that formed it, the climatic and
hydrological conditions and the degree of decomposition.
Peat at the top of the deposit is more fibric and less decom- PHYSICAL STRUCTURE AND ROAD
posed. At the opposite, peat at the bottom of the deposit is MANAGEMENT
more decomposed.
• When opening a peatland, roads are constructed to allow
• The quality of peat in the harvested fields is frequently transportation of the peat moss to the factory. These roads
assessed in order to characterize the type of horticultural are built so as to reduce environmental impacts, for example
peat that will be a component of growing media (stock by using natural materials from the site (tree roots and
valuation). residue from the peat screening).

CHEMICAL QUALITY Next steps – Peatland management

• Peat has a low nutrient content. It also has a good cation CSPMA will:
exchange capacity (CEC), which can retain the minerals and
• Support the VeriFlora® certification process within the
release them slowly (to avoid leaching of fertilizers).
membership base.
• Peat is tested periodically by producers to guarantee
• Compile more detailed statistics on the current areas of
chemical quality.
peat production and post-harvested peatlands (restoration,
afforestation, etc.).
CONSERVATION AND AFTER-USE • Pursue restoration investigation studies with research
• According to data collected in 2011, 68% of sites closed organizations and the federal government.
before 2010 were not yet restored, while 20% were under • Ensure that restoration is widely conducted and that best
restoration and 12% were in afforestation process (after tree practices are adopted by members. To do so, the aim is to
planting) (CIRAIG and Groupe AGÉCO, 2012). Restoration increase the number of VeriFlora® certified producers and to
is mostly done by the moss layer transfer techniques collaborate on various research restoration and reclamation
developed through research done over the past 20 years with projects with the Research Chair and others.
the PERG (Quinty & Rochefort, 2003).
• Investigate and engage the industry in identifying
• VeriFlora® certified producers establish a restoration/ restoration and reclamation practices following post-harvest
rehabilitation plan for all harvested areas. For VeriFlora® activities and to support restoration as required under
certified producers, restoration has become mandatory for provincial legislation.
all bogs open after 2000.
• Companies of the peat moss sector are financing the
Industrial Research Chair on Peatland Management for a new
five-year commitment period (2013-2018). The research
program of this third term focuses on biodiversity, hydrology
and GhG emissions in natural, harvested and restored
peatlands.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 25

 5.4 BIODIVERSITY
Peatlands are wetlands. These ecosystems have a specific biodiversity. Producers are more and more aware of the necessity
of preserving this value. Peatlands benefit from a high level of awareness for conservation at the international level. In
Canada, conservation and restoration issues are at the forefront of industry planning. Recently, Canadian peat industry
companies reinvested $2.5 million dollars in a five-year research program (2013-2018) that includes biodiversity objectives.

SPECIES AND HABITAT BIODIVERSITY THREATENED SPECIES

• Restoring functional ecosystems brings back bog specific • In Canada, several species are classified as threatened
biodiversity. species (under national and/or provincial laws), some of
them occurring in peatlands. For instance, about a dozen of
• Specific research projects also look at species and habitat
the plants listed as threatened in the Loi québécoise sur les
biodiversity. For example:
espèces menacées et vulnérables can be found in peatlands
◊ Restoration of peatland pools which are regarded as in Québec (e.g. Valerianna uliginosa, Parnassia glauca). These
hotspots for biodiversity; species have a high protection status.
◊ Restoration of peatland margins (lagg habitat); • Producers are compliant with the national and provincial
◊ Propagation and establishment of specific and rare plant laws on threatened species and conduct when required
species (e.g. sedges, orchids). inventory of the threatened species that can be found on
their peatlands and affected by their activities. Mitigation
• The election of the CSPMA’s President on the board of
measures can be established when needed.
directors of the Canadian Business and Biodiversity Council
(CBBC) for a one year term (2012 – 2013) is a positive
recognition of actions taken regarding preservation issues. Next steps – Biodiversity
CSPMA will:
ECOSYSTEM INTEGRITY • Support biodiversity research with member’s participation,
namely within the Industrial Chair and Cooperative Research
• Restoration programs are based on the ability to
Development (NSERC) research program (2013-2018) and
re-establish the natural ecosystem processes that lead
other research initiatives.
to the development of functional ecosystems. VeriFlora®
certified peatlands have specific goals for restoration or • Continue to participate on the CBBC board and committee
rehabilitation of both the ecosystem structure and meetings related to biodiversity at the international level
functioning of the wetlands. Moreover, certified producers (Convention on Biological Diversity) and at the national level
are required to set aside at least 10% of their operations as (Canadian Biodiversity and Business Council).
donor sites for restoration. • Identify research opportunities related to ecosystem goods
• The PERG research program (2008-2013) includes the and services, an emerging field in science and policy.
characterization of ecological functions of restored • Work collaboratively with federal agency responsible for
peatlands. The upcoming PERG program (2013-2018) the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and other provincial agencies
will include extensive investigations into bog and fen when appropriate.
biodiversity, hydrological processes and GhG exchanges.
• The E-LCA conducted in 2012 assessed ecosystem integrity
with criteria of water ecotoxicity, terrestrial ecotoxicity
and eutrophication. Ecotoxicity impact is mainly due to the
transport activity (74%) because of the heavy metals
emission (zinc and aluminum).

26 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

5.5 MATERIAL RESOURCES AND ENERGY
As in all human activities, energy consumption in the peat industry is directly related to GhG emissions and climate change.
Furthermore, processing and packaging operations generate a significant amount of waste. The VeriFlora® standards set
requirements regarding both the consumption of energy and the use of material resources.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND

INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT
• Energy consumption was evaluated in the 2012 E-LCA
at 1660 MJ/m3 of peat. The major part is due to moving • Handlers are responsible for processing, blending,
harvested peat off the bog as well as oil and natural gas use. packaging and distributing the product to users. VeriFlora®
• Distribution, including transportation from harvesting sites certified handlers are requested to provide a quantitative
to transformation plants, accounts for 12% of the total annual report detailing the volume or weight of residual
amount of energy used, mainly due to gas-oil consumption. materials from industrial or construction use. They report on
the proportion of waste that is recycled, re-used or sent to
• VeriFlora® certified producers are compelled to have
the landfill. Through 2013 a reduction in over 7% of packaging
procedures to monitor and reduce energy consumption of
materials, such as shrink wrap has been achieved, primarily
their operations. For example, certain producers monitor
through the use of thinner gauge plastics and optimization
tractor use specifically in order to reduce fuel consumption.
of strength and size of woven materials and sewing (Dr. M.
Keyes, SCS-VeriFlora Certification, personal communication).

Next steps – Material resources and energy

CSPMA will:
• Continue to support energy efficiency practices. The integration of efficient equipment is identified as a good solution to improve
energy consumption.
• Support companies to conduct training on resource conservation and waste management.

27
 2014
6 - ECONOMIC
PERFORMANCE

28
Estimated at $337 million dollars, the peat harvested in
Canada contributes to the production of horticultural products
valued at $568 million dollars. As a whole, the peat industry
provides more than 3,000 direct and indirect jobs to Canadians
all across the country (CIRAIG and Groupe AGÉCO 2012).

6.1 RESEARCH INVESTMENTS

Innovation is essential to ensure the sector’s long term
competitiveness. Research projects contribute to that goal.
CSPMA is very active in supporting research at various levels.
The producers themselves put research and innovation at
the top of priorities in order to maintain or gain competitive
advantage.

RESEARCH INVESTMENTS
• From 1996 to 2013, $5 million dollars of industrial support
has been invested to find ways to restore bogs when
harvesting is completed.
• CSPMA invested 8.7% of its revenue in research on national
projects in 2012. 6.2 SUPPLY CHAIN
• The CSPMA board has endorsed a new five year program
(2013-2018) of $2.5 million dollars through the Industrial
MANAGEMENT
Chair and Cooperative Research Development (NSERC)
An efficient supply chain is designed to provide organizations
funding program and involving five universities across Canada.
with all the inputs and services they need to perform their
production activities. In this respect, relationships with
Next steps – Research investments suppliers are crucial. The social life cycle assessment (S-LCA)
of the peat moss sector conducted in 2012 looked into this issue.
CSPMA will:
• Support research in areas of environmental interests and
other areas that impacts the peat moss industry.
SUPPLIERS AND PARTNERS RELATIONSHIP
• Support research on peat moss management and industrial • In recent years, the number of partnerships developed by the
aspects. peat moss producers in Canada and abroad has significantly
increased.
• Develop new partnerships with research organizations and
governmental agencies. • The S-LCA indicates that producers collaborate adequately
with their suppliers and their substrates suppliers in particu-
lar. Given that peat moss companies have not yet integrated
social and environmental criteria in their purchasing policies,
the study recommends adopting formal responsible procure-
ment policy to manage more efficiently these risks.

Next steps – Supply chain management

CSPMA will:
• Follow the S-LCA recommendation to stimulate producers to
adopt a sustainable purchasing policy among its members.
• Share with other substrate producers the need to understand
the environmental and social life cycles of their products in
order to ensure sustainability and responsible management
of all substrate resources.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 29

30 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014
Figure 3 – Peatland distribution in Canada

DOMINANT PEATLAND CLASSES EXTENT OF

COVERAGE
BOG FEN BOG/FEN SWAMP MARSH

0 - < 1%

1% - 5%

> 5 % - 20 %

> 20 % - 35 %

> 35 % - 55 %

> 55 % - 75 %

> 75 % - 100 %

Source: Tarnocai et al., 2011

31
 Figure 4 – Peat production in Canada, average 2008 to 2011

5%

New Brunswick

29 % Alberta
42 %
Manitoba

Québec

Other provinces
13 %
12 %

6.3 PRODUCTION CAPACITY PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION CAPACITY

• In Canada, peatlands represent 90% of the wetlands and
In order to answer the market’s demand for peat moss cover approximately 113.6 million hectares. From that,
products in a long term perspective, a strategic management 25,000 hectares have been or are currently harvested. This
of the resource is required. Since harvesting peat on is less than 0.02% of the natural capital (Environment
public lands requires an authorization delivered by Canada, 2013).
provincial authorities, such responsibility entails them
• Sphagnum peat moss is harvested mainly for horticultural
partly. Provincial authorities are in charge of managing peat
purposes in Canada. The situation is different elsewhere: 50%
resources and defining the sector’s strategic orientations
of world production is for energy use namely in countries such
to foster the industry’s development. The CSPMA works
as Finland, Russia, Ireland, Sweden and, to a lesser extent, in
in collaboration with those authorities to define these
Eastern Europe (USGS, 2012; IPS, pers. comm.).
orientations.
• 1.14 million tons of peat is harvested on a yearly basis in
Canada (Natural Resources Canada, 2011).
• Imports of sphagnum peat moss from Canada represent
97% of total United States imports and 85% of total Canadian
production (USGS, 2012).

Next steps – Production and distribution

capacity
CSPMA will:
• Continue the relationship with provincial authorities in their
definition of strategic directions for the sector to foster the
industry’s development.
• Promote the development of provincial responsible
management strategies that incorporate responsible use/
restoration.

32 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

6.4 DEMAND MANAGEMENT 6.6 LOCAL ECONOMY
It is important to understand client needs and foresee Positive contribution of businesses to local, provincial and
potential market developments. This allows companies to national economy expresses itself through jobs creation,
plan production and perhaps open new harvesting sites. The regional economic growth and development of partnerships
S-LCA assessed the businesses’ behavior in regards to their at various levels. The Canadian peat moss industry plays an
clients and consumers. important role locally and intends to remain an economic force
in regions.

CUSTOMER PROFILE AND FEEDBACK

MECHANISM VALUE CREATION
• Peat moss products are mainly for professional growers, • The economic impact of the peat moss industry in Canada in
independent garden centers, wholesalers, manufacturers 2012 (CIRAIG and Groupe AGÉCO 2012) :
and large specialised chains. ◊ Direct GDP: $151.7 million dollars;
• In order to be attentive to their evolving needs and demands, ◊ Direct production value: $337 million dollars;
producers have at least one feedback mechanism (such as ◊ Direct wage bill: $63.3 million dollars;
customer satisfaction survey). ◊ Employments (direct and indirect): 3,095;
◊ It is interesting to point out that if a job created or lost
in a rural area was transposed to an urban setting, the
Next step – Demand management economic weight of the job is much higher. For instance,
CSPMA will: a job created in Bas-St-Laurent in Quebec is equivalent
to 20 jobs in the Montreal area (ISQ 2012a; 2012b, and
• Continue to provide information about the use of the peat StatCan 2005).
resources among consumers through improved electronic
communications capability and traditional trade shows and
communications media.
LOCAL PROCUREMENT
• Peat moss producers adopt local purchasing practices, but

6.5 MARKET DEVELOPMENT

these are not yet formalized in policy or procedure.

All economic activities face market risks, such as price Next step – Local economy
decrease or contraction of the demand. Continuous efforts to CSPMA will:
develop existing and new markets ensure economic resilience
and mitigate market risks. • Document on a regular basis the regional and national
economic impact of the peat moss industry.

MARKET DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT

• Most Canadian peat producers have a good economic
6.7 PRODUCT INFORMATION
situation.
Sphagnum peat moss is an organic matter. Producers use
• In addition, trade challenges which are generated by concerns tools to ensure the quality of the production.
related to sanitary and phytosanitary issues need to be
monitored and engaged in to protect current and future
international markets. PRODUCT QUALITY AND TRACEABILITY
• Traceability systems are commonplace for all peatland
Next step – Market development producers. Lot numbers on barcodes and bills of lading
facilitate customer service representatives to trace back any
CSPMA will:
and all quality concerns to the specific bog, screening, blending
• Continue working with national and international agencies (for facility.
example, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the
• The VeriFlora® certification includes product quality and
International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC)) to ensure
longevity.
protection of existing markets.
• A number of producers (18%) have also attained the ISO 9001
quality management system certification.
• Producers who are certified VeriFlora® must comply with
traceability requirements.
CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 33
 2014
7 - WORKERS
AND HARMONIOUS
COHABITATION

34
Consumer expectations have increased regarding sustainability issues. When purchasing a product or a service, many now take
into consideration the social performance of businesses. They want to know: how the organization treats its employees, how the
business takes part in the well-being of their community, etc.
The CSPMA understands that social concerns toward peat moss production are a critical issue for the industry. In the 2012 social
life cycle assessment (S-LCA), the social performance of peat producers was documented. Best practices and hot spots were
highlighted related to their stakeholders : workers, consumers, partners and suppliers as well as the community.

7.1 WORKING CONDITIONS 7.2 HUMAN HEALTH AND

AND LABOR RIGHTS SAFETY
The S-LCA study concludes that overall, Canadian peat moss Peat moss processing plants are challenging environments
producers have a committed relation with their workers from and health risks related to jobs where peat moss is handled
a socioeconomic standpoint. Members, through the VeriFlora® are increasingly taken into account by the industry. The
standards, have become involved in promoting fair working CSPMA is concerned by this issue and works in collaboration
conditions in the workforce. The performance here described with the producers – who directly bear the responsibility
is based on the S-LCA results as well as the VeriFlora® to tackle that issue – to reduce these risks. The VeriFlora®
requirements. standard imposes requirements in the areas of prevention,
health and safety of workers.

WAGE LEVELS AND EMPLOYMENT

RELATIONSHIP PHYSICAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL AND
SOCIAL HEALTH
• Most producers have a committed behavior regarding wage
levels and benefits. For example, all producers interviewed • Producers demonstrated a committed behavior regarding
for the S-LCA study paid employees more than the minimum health and safety condition. In practice, a majority of
wage. companies have health and safety training program for
• All VeriFlora® certified companies also have written HR policies employees. Many have invested heavily in a large number
and procedures published in easily accessible locations. of third-party professional training organizations. Most
producers also have intervention plans and conduct
• Yet, actions could be taken towards formalizing human preventive equipment maintenance.
resources policies among non-certified members.
• Fire prevention and emergency procedures are compulsory
for VeriFlora® certified producers.
CAPACITY BUILDING • Job risk analysis is also compulsory for VeriFlora®.
• Producers see training as essential when adopting new
methods or changing technology. Ongoing training improves
Next steps – Human health and safety
competitiveness. The S-LCA shows that all producers offer a
training program to new employees. CSPMA will:
• Support health and safety training practices among members.
EQUITY • Support effort leading the identification of areas of
improvement in health and safety such as the fire program
• All VeriFlora® certified companies have a non-discrimination
through hot work permits and support improvements within
policy. The balance of the companies within the peat moss
the industry.
industry have an internal policy against discrimination.

Next step – Working conditions and labour

rights
CSPMA will:
• Monitor and, when necessary, comment and intervene on
national issues related to labor rights and discrimination
practices affecting the industry.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 35

 7.3 COHABITATION AND ABORIGINAL RELATIONSHIPS
RELATIONSHIP WITH • The emerging role of First Nations (FN) within Canada
as part of resource management decision making and
ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES the “duty to consult and accommodate” will require the
Association to identify and work with FN leaders, provincial
The social life cycle assessment clearly indicated that one of and federal governments to determine consistent and
the challenges of the industry is to develop harmonious and effective communication mechanisms.
sustainable relationships with local communities and with • Individual producers are also working to incorporate appro-
aboriginal people nearby. Peat moss operations are conducted priate actions to address the challenges to FN consultation
in the vicinity of living areas. Production and transportation and dialogue.
activities can cause negative impacts due to truck and dust.
• The industry invited speakers to their 2011 Semi-Annual
On-going dialogue between the producers and the commu-
meeting to outline the background and expectations for
nities is recommended in order to improve relationships with
engagement from a legal, government and First Nations
these stakeholders of the peat moss industry.
perspective.

COHABITATION Next steps – Cohabitation and relationship

• Producers have a committed behavior with their communities with aboriginal communities
according the S-LCA study. In addition, CSPMA participates in CSPMA will:
many government and ministry committees to represent the
peat moss industry. • Support industry in reviewing the challenges with the
Aboriginal communities on leasing requirements as well as
• VeriFlora® certified companies are required to conduct
business structure and operations.
stakeholder engagements.
• Strengthen the Association’s relationships with their
stakeholders including environmental interest groups.
• Participate in the development of environmental research as it
relates to the harvesting and use of peat moss.
• Support members who plan on conducting discussions with
stakeholders.

36 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

 2014
8 - CONCLUDING REMARKS

If you have any comments or questions regarding this report,

please contact Paul Short, president of the CSPMA, or Stéphanie
Boudreau, science coordinator of the industry.

Paul Short
President
Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association
2208-13 Mission Avenue
St. Albert (Alberta) T8N 1H6 CANADA
Ph: 780-460-8280
Email: [email protected]

Stéphanie Boudreau
Science Coordinator
Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association
6 rue Iberville
Rivière-du-Loup (Québec) G5R 3Y7 CANADA
Ph: 418-931-5052
Email : [email protected]

It is our intent to provide an update report within three years on

the successes achieved in meeting the commitments set up in
this report.

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 37

 2014 GLOSSARY

APTHQ: Association des producteurs de tourbe horticole du Québec

[Québec Peat Moss Producers Association]

CBBC: Canadian Business and Biodiversity Council

CDB: Convention on Biological Biodiversity

CFIA: Canadian Food Inspection Agency

CSPMA: Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association

CZRI: Coastal Zone Research Institute

EC: Environment Canada

E-LCA: Environmental life cycle assessment

FAO: Food and Agriculture Organization

FN : First Nations

GDP: Gross domestic product

GhG: Greenhouse gas

IPCC: Intergovernmental partnership on climate change

IPS: International Peat Society

ISR: Industry social responsibility

NSERC: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada

NBSAP: National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans

PERG : Peatland ecology research group

R&D: Research and development

SAFA: Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture Systems

SCC: Science coordinating committee of the CSPMA

S-LCA: Social life cycle assessment

UNFCC: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

WDR: Wetland drainage and rewetting

38 CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014

REPORTS AND PUBLICATIONS
2014
BIBLIOGRAPHY

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Graf_etal_2012_Restoration_Chapter_02.pdf

CSPMA Industry Social Responsibility Report 2014 39

 Industry Social Responsibility Report
Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association ©2014
 2014
CANADIAN SPHAGNUM
PEAT MOSS ASSOCIATION
Industry Social Responsibility Report

2014
CANADIAN SPHAGNUM
PEAT MOSS ASSOCIATION
Industry Social Responsibility Report