Based in Sainte-Clotilde, Cultures Gen V, the largest greenhouse producer in Québec, has been awarded the prestigious B Corp Certification. By becoming the first greenhouse business in Canada to receive this distinction, Cultures Gen V meets rigorous social and environmental performance standards, transparency, and accountability. 

The agri-food sector, particularly greenhouse production, faces complex and sector-specific environmental issues, such as energy management and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite these challenges, Gen V has adopted sustainable practices by prioritizing green energy and making decisions focused on the well-being of its employees and the community. 

This process, which spanned three years, was kick-started by the family’s next generation, who will eventually take over the company. 

By integrating high standards across the five pillars of B Corp certification (i.e., governance, community, customers, employees, and environment), the company sets a new benchmark. It shows that combining economic performance with social responsibility is possible—even in an industry known for its environmental challenges. 

The company has implemented several initiatives to improve its environmental, social, and organizational performance. Key measures include:

• -  Divert 100% of agricultural plastics from landfills: In 2022, this initiative supported efforts to recycle these plastics, reducing GHG emissions by 86.11 tonnes.
•  
• -  Actively participate in a consultation project on the circular use of horticultural plastics in the Montérégie region.
•  
• -  Adopt the EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) system: This framework promotes open and structured communication within the organization.
•  
• -  Redistribute unsold products to organizations: This provides fresh, local, and accessible food to economically vulnerable people through social pricing.
•  
• -  Support foreign workers’ integration: Initiatives include offering French and Spanish courses and hiring a dedicated HR staff member to address their concerns.

"B Corp is essential for demonstrating our ongoing commitment and tangible contributions to a sustainable future for generations to come,” says Simon Terrault, second generation, general manager at Cultures Gen V Inc. As 30-something-year-olds leading the company, our continued efforts at environmental stewardship are particularly salient as we are part of this next generation. As a young and dynamic family-owned business, building a company committed to constantly improving its environmental, social, and governance practices speaks to us immensely. I hope it will resonate with our consumers, grocery stores, and beyond!"

Source: Cultures Gen V December 9, 2024 news release