On March 19-20, 2025, experts and stakeholders gathered in Berlin to discuss the future of peat reduction in horticulture. The event brought together around 180 participants, including substrate producers, plant growers, research institutions, chambers of agriculture, and government representatives, with additional attendees joining online.
Dr Frank Gaupels from BUFFER+ partner Ökowerk Emden actively participated in the event, presenting a poster on peat alternatives and delivering a short talk during the “poster slam” to highlight key findings. The discussions fostered collaboration and provided valuable insights into sustainable substrate solutions. Have a look at the poster by clicking on the pdf file below:
Poster peat reduction meeting Berlin
Among the speakers was Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture Cem Özdemir, who reaffirmed his commitment to advancing peat replacement efforts in Germany. Dr. Philipp Gramlich (Stichting Turfvrij) also provided insights into the Substrate Covenant, the Netherlands' strategy for reducing peat use.
For more details about the meeting, visit the official event page (in German).