Criteria Snapshot

The Responsible Sourcing Scheme (RSS) is designed to help growing media manufacturers, suppliers, and end users understand the environmental and social impacts of raw materials. By assessing each major component—from peat to coir, wood fibre to minerals—the scheme provides a clear framework for measuring responsible sourcing across multiple criteria.

These twelve “snapshots” offer a quick overview of the key factors the RSS looks at, including:

• Energy and Water Use – tracking inputs like fossil fuels, irrigation, and processing efficiency.

• Social Compliance – ensuring fair labour and safe working conditions in every tier of the supply chain.

• Habitat & Biodiversity – examining each substrate’s origin (peat bogs, forests, farmland, etc.) to protect sensitive ecosystems.

• Pollution, Renewability, and Resource Efficiency – controlling emissions, prioritising renewable or recycled materials, and minimising waste.

Each snapshot highlights what’s covered, what evidence is required, and practical improvement tips. Together, they form a comprehensive guide for any organisation aiming to lower its environmental footprint, support ethical labour practices, and confidently market its products as responsibly sourced.