26 Apr 2007


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Waitrose commits to green standards for fresh

Waitrose

the environment

farming

green-retail

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LEAF - Linking Environment and Farming

Waitrose has promised that by 2010 all fruit and vegetables, including fresh, prepared and frozen, on sale in all of its outlets will conform to LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) Marque Scheme standards.

LEAF Marque Scheme protects endangered species

For the past two years, Waitrose's UK-sourced fruit and vegetables have been produced in accordance with the scheme, which requires farmers to use high standards of environmental stewardship. By 2010, the retailer will demand LEAF Marque standard produce from all countries of origin.

Waitrose said it will work in partnership with LEAF and its worldwide suppliers to help growers and farmers reach the environmental standards required.

Practices needed to comply with LEAF Marque include minimising use of pesticides, encouraging natural predators, protecting wildlife, conserving water and energy, maintaining soil vitality through crop rotation, and prevention of soil erosion. Growers must also demonstrate continuous environmental improvements year on year.

LEAF is a national farming and environmental charity that helps farmers improve their environment and business performance by encouraging them to adopt Integrated Farm Management (IFM).

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