Environment
The environment is a key part of Rijk Zwaan’s sustainable business practices. One way we take care of the environment is by making careful use of resources. For us, this specifically means using appropriate, reliable and durable business resources, and using materials and equipment that enable us to supply high-quality products. We treat business resources with restraint so that they last longer and we avoid superfluous luxury.
Efficient resource use
Energy
At Rijk Zwaan, we operate numerous greenhouses for breeding which require a substantial amount of energy. Hence, we prioritise investment in renewables and participate in local ‘green energy’ initiatives.
Water
We assist growers with irrigation strategies, and breed varieties that can cope with drought, heat and salty soils. Rijk Zwaan also offers varieties that are suitable for hydroponic cultivation, which conserves water compared to traditional methods.
Resilient varieties
Rijk Zwaan's disease-resistant varieties align with legislative goals by helping growers to reduce their use of chemical crop protection agents. We also offer a wide range of seeds tailored for organic farming.
The environment is ofcrucial importance
There is an incredible diversity of wild plants in nature, each with unique traits that could hold the key to tackling new plant diseases, combating stilting, and conquering drought. That is why we work together with gene bank to preserve biodiversity. 
Constructingnew facilities
As Rijk Zwaan is growing, we are continuously innovating and expanding. At our site in De Lier, we are constructing the Seed Connect Centre: a new seed processing and seed storage facility. Needless to say, when designing the new building we have taken our environmental impact into account. 
Foodwaste reduction
Food should be eaten, not thrown away. It sounds simple, yet one third of all food globally is wasted – either during cultivation or the production process, in the supermarket or by consumers. That's why we're looking for plant traits that extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. More on CSR
Corporate Social Responsibility
Our position as an internationally operating fruit and vegetable breeding company pushes us to look beyond borders, and take care of the world around us.
Social
Our top priority is to offer all employees an enjoyable and long-term job with attractive pay and conditions. In addition, we focus on long-term relationships with our partners, stakeholders and the people around us.
Company Governance
At Rijk Zwaan, honesty, integrity and fairness come first – all over the world. We make no concessions on these values.