The RSS is an independent certification scheme designed to help manufacturers, retailers and growers better understand the environmental and social impacts of the materials used in growing media products. Its assessments evaluate materials against seven key criteria: energy use, water use, pollution, social compliance, habitat and biodiversity, renewability, and resource use efficiency.
A framework for more responsible growing media
Through its work, the RSS brings together manufacturers, retailers, growers and supporting organisations from across the horticultural industry. The aim is to help businesses demonstrate their commitment to more responsible sourcing practices while encouraging ongoing improvement throughout the sector.
In addition to responsible sourcing assessments, the scheme is also working with industry partners to develop industry-wide performance standards for growing media products. This work seeks to improve consistency, transparency and confidence in product performance across the horticultural supply chain.
RHS support seen as a positive step for the industry
Steve Harper, Chair of the Responsible Sourcing Scheme, welcomed the RHS’s decision to join the initiative, describing the organisation as one of the most respected bodies in horticulture.
“We are delighted to welcome the RHS as a Supporter Member of the RSS. The RHS is one of the most respected organisations in horticulture, and their support is a positive step for the wider industry,” Harper said.
Harper also stressed that the scheme is built around continuous improvement and greater transparency regarding growing media materials and sourcing practices. He added that the involvement of organisations such as the RHS helps raise awareness of the work being carried out across the supply chain and of the importance of responsible sourcing within horticulture.
Alongside sourcing, Harper underlined the need for the industry to continue focusing on product quality and performance in order to build confidence throughout the supply chain.
Science, quality and transparency
Alistair Griffiths, Director of Science and Collections at the RHS, said the transition towards more sustainable growing media must be supported by scientific evidence, consistent quality standards and transparent sourcing.
According to Griffiths, the Responsible Sourcing Scheme provides a framework to support the next generation of high-quality growing media technologies, ensuring they deliver both environmental benefits and reliable performance.
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“We are pleased to support this collaborative effort to drive innovation across the horticultural sector,” he said.
Promoting continuous improvement
Supporter Membership is open to organisations that support the aims and principles of the RSS and wish to help promote responsible sourcing, transparency and continuous improvement across the horticultural industry.
With the addition of the RHS, the Responsible Sourcing Scheme strengthens its position as a collaborative platform for advancing more sustainable, transparent and performance-driven growing media practices across the horticultural sector.
