Environmental commitment
We work every day with products that stem from nature. We are therefore very aware of the importance of reducing our ecological footprint. For this reason we have adopted a sustainable approach in all spheres of our activities for more then 20 years.
Courchesne Larose is proud to be one of the rare fruit and vegetable distribution companies to be certified Level 2 Performance Eco-Responsible. This achievement is proof of our desire to make a tangible contribution to the sustainable development of our planet.
Targets and objectives
Being supported by many partners specializing in sustainable development, we were able to identify the main issues on which our organization wishes to focus by 2025. These issues take the form of 4 objectives.
Our sustainable actions
In terms of sustainable development, we have implemented several actions allowing our company to position itself as an eco-responsible leader within our industry and our community. Aware of our responsibility, we are constantly working to implement the latest technologies and advances in sustainable development. Discover the results of our actions in the following 4 dimensions of sustainable development.
Sustainable development charter
This charter testifies to Courchesne Larose's commitment to integrating the principles of sustainable development into all spheres of the company's activities (from strategic decision-making processes to day-to-day operations), in strict compliance with the laws and regulations in force.
Download our charterPreserving the environment and reducing the ecological footprint are the basis of our environmental ambitions. Our actions are based on the desire to take responsibility for our impacts on society and the environment.
Reduction of outputs and inputs
Practice :
Arranging loading docks so that truck doors can open inside the warehouse.
Results :
- Improving the quality of our products by reducing the risk of a break in the cold chain
- Improved warehouse energy efficiency
Practice :
Use of the AirocideMD® system. Developed by NASA, it eliminates airborne mold, fungi and bacteria, as well as volatile organic compounds such as ethylene.
Results :
- Extension of our products lifespan
Practice :
The conditions under which the products stored are carefully controlled by a state-of-the-art refrigeration system, cooled with CO2. In addition, the temperature and humidity of each room are computer calibrated, so as to create the ideal environment for the products therein.
Results :
- Improved warehouse energy efficiency
Practice :
Creation of a division called LOOP Mission dedicated to the food processing of unsold products into juice.
Results :
- Reduction of food waste
- Valuation of unsold items
- For Courchesne Larose: 72,300 boxes, (avg 15kg), approx 1,100 tonnes per year
- Click on the following link to see our impact on reducing food waste to date : https://loopmission.com/
Practice :
A large part of the residual materials is transformed into biogas.
Results :
- Food waste reduction
- Landfill reduction
- GHG emissions reduction
- Energy transition participation
- Residual materials annual volume transformed into biogas: approx. 2,450 tons
Practice :
90% of the products are sold in bulk (unpackaged).
Results :
- Optimization of raw materials use
Practice :
Participation in the Cascades Recovery+ program.
Recovery, recycling and re-routing of cardboard waste by Cascades.
Results :
- 2020 results : 9,231 trees saved, 76,029 liters of water saved, 452 kg / tons of CO2 avoided, 83 kWh of electricity saved, 2,246 cubic yards of waste diverted from landfill
Reduction of GHG emissions
Practice :
Acquisition of 8 refrigerated trailers to replace those running on diesel.
Results :
- Reduced GHG emissions when trailers are parked with products inside
- Reduced trailer use total cost
Practice :
Use of a delivery tracking system to optimize travel and associated pollution (ROADNET). 100% of the fleet is equipped with the system.
Results :
- Reduction of GHG emissions during product transport
- Improved quality control
Energy transition efficiency
Practice :
Replacement of lead-acid forklift batteries by lithium-ion electric models from the Quebec company UgoWork. About 90 batteries have been replaced, almost 100%.
Results :
- Reduced power consumption thanks to charging technology
- Reduction of GHG emissions
- Lower total cost of using forklifts
Practice :
The Anjou warehouse lighting has been modernized with LED bulbs and a Lutron system for motion detector lighting.
Results :
- Reduced power consumption
- Reduction of GHG emissions
- A brighter warehouse
We aim to develop the company while meeting all of our employees needs in terms of health, safety and well-being in the workplace.
Health, safety and well-being
Practice :
An Occupational Health and Safety Committee has been created, meets regularly and is proactive in its actions and recommendations.
Results :
- Accident report monitored by the OHS committee in order to set up clear objectives to reduce risks.
Practice :
Integration training program with operator training (OHS)
Results :
- Ensures operator and employee safety
Practice :
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offered to everyone. 3 free hours for each employee and / or their family.
Results :
- Provide preventive actions and medical care for employee mental health.
Fight against poverty and hunger
Practice :
Donation Moisson Montreal, South Shore and Laurentians
Results :
- Annual volume: 336,252 boxes of fruit and vegetables. Average of 15kg = 5,000 tons of donations, 9% donations.
Mobilization and workplace relations
Practice :
Survey completed by employees on their workplace mobilization (working conditions, relations with managers, evaluation, motivation, etc.)
Results :
- This survey allows an HR diagnosis and the implementation of actions to improve working conditions.
We develop growth and economic efficiency, through sustainable production and consumption methods.
Responsible sourcing
Practice :
Courchesne Larose suppliers systematically fill out a questionnaire to validate that their health practices and / or certifications meet quality criteria.
Results :
- Ensure compliance with Canadian requirements and superior product quality
Community development
Practice :
The Louis-Charles Routhier Foundation, set up by the former owner of Courchesne Larose, helps the Je Passe Partout organisation.
Results :
- School and family support as well as the prevention of dropping out of school in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve district of Montreal.
We ensure that our company is managed and administered in a way that meets the challenges of sustainable development while respecting our values, our vision and our mission.
Responsible products and services
Practice :
Courchesne Larose holds a level 2 Safe Quality Food (SQF) version 9 certification.
The SQF is a rigorous food safety management system, recognized worldwide by the Global Food Safety Initiative. It allows products to be certified and tracked at all stages of the supply chain : from primary production to food manufacturing, including agent and broker distribution and certification.
Results :
- Ensure compliance with Canadian requirements and the superior quality of our products
