PlantC and Trafic collaborate to strengthen biodiversity in Wallonia. Before reaching 25.2 km of planted hedges, it all started with 2 projects launched at the end of 2022.
Why is Trafic involved in biodiversity?
The Trafic group is aware of its impact on biodiversity, caused by soil artificialization that harms ecosystems. That is why, through their TakeCare sustainability program, Trafic is committed to supporting biodiversity rehabilitation projects within their own sites and on agricultural farms.
When we addressed the Biodiversity chapter as part of our Take Care program, the teams’ desire to take concrete action at the local level quickly became apparent. We then found in PlantC an attentive and committed partner, capable of offering us a solution that is both professional and has a strong impact on biodiversity.
Thanks to the network of farmers and market gardeners spread throughout Belgium, we will be able to develop a project near each of our stores by 2030.
Our choice to collaborate with PlantC is also based on the rigor applied to the selection of its partners: the plantings are chosen according to the local biotope, implemented with care, and are subject to regular monitoring.
We are delighted with this collaboration, enriched throughout the year by clear information and constant visibility on current and upcoming projects.
Stéphane PLUMER – Sustainable Development Project Manager at Trafic
Trafic takes action on its sites
The Trafic group began its action in favor of biodiversity at the Heppignies logistics site, which joined Natagora’s nature network in 2019 (pond, trees, flower meadows). In 2022, PlantC planted an additional 163m of triple-row hedges. Since then, new Trafic store sites are under development: ultimately, this represents 9 sites.
Trafic takes action in our rural areas
In 2022, the partnership expanded: we are embarking on a major joint project, committing us to plant 500 meters of hedges per store, with Belgian farmers and market gardeners. This joint program allows us to work for the climate and biodiversity on our national territory.
Hedges, but for what purpose? Hedges fulfill multiple functions. They play an important role in environmental protection by providing shelter and food for wildlife and serve as a natural barrier against soil erosion. Furthermore, they contribute to climate change mitigation by absorbing CO2 and providing shade for livestock.
The hedge therefore provides what are called ecosystem services.
How?
The PlantC team went into the field, to meet with farmers and market gardeners.
Once the visit is completed, PlantC determines the typology of the plantings. Once the design is determined, we solicit local planters to implement the hedge and tree plantings. Finally, PlantC inspects the sites to ensure a good recovery rate.
Once the plantings are completed, each farmer receives an educational panel which allows passers-by to learn more about the hedge and why it was planted in that location.
Here is an overview of the supported projects:
What do the numbers show?
21 farms have planted hedges thanks to this support since 2022.
- Brye Farm in Fleurus (2 projects)
- Espinette Farm in Beauvechain
- Chapelle Farm in Gembloux
- Ferme qui Bouge in Clavier
- Monville Farm in Stoumont
- Damien de Theux in Le Roeulx
- François Misse in Tohogne
- Pierre Peltzer in Ouffet
- Panier Culture in Gourdinne
- Ponceau Farm of Thorembais-St-Trond
- Les cochons de Chaumont in Chaumont Gistoux
- Marnières Farm in Lasne
- Bruno de Breyne in Modave (2 projects)
- Anda Declerc Farm in Bonsin
- Flonceaux Farm in Prouvy
- Château Farm in Ere
- Crutins Farm in Sugny
- Luc Warnez in Wépion
- Christian Lacroix in Cognelée
- Pierre Dupuis in Fexhes-Slins
- Simon and Pierre Leriche in Tenneville
Do you want to know more about the farmers whose planting projects we support, find out more here:
