Le Pressoir d'Hortus
What is it you do?
“The Pressoir d'Hortus is a cooperative focusing on fruit trees and promoting the interests of its members. Its aim is to create ways for members to sell or juice the fruit they grow in their gardens and orchards.”
What prompted you to seek "Famenne-Ardenne UNESCO Global Geopark Partner" status?
“What we do is very much in keeping with many of thecharges laid on the Famenne-Ardenne Geopark. We support and develop activities relating to the natural world through our orchards. The press is located in the picturesque village of Froidlieu, itself a geosite, and will contribute to developing tourism and the village economy. We are a start-up business seeking to make the most of the Geopark's natural and human resourceswhilst protecting the environment. In addition, as a geographer, holder of a science doctorate and head of agriculture, I believe very strongly that the cooperative has an important role to play in preserving our geological heritage and all that it implies for our region.”
What is your approach to sustainable development and environment friendly practices?
“We have installed solar panels, and collect rainwater for use in washing the apples and cleaning the working areas. Our orchards are pesticide-free and no regulators are used in our juices. The cooperative structure is manifestly inclusive, compared to a public or private limited liability company; we provide training to ensure skills are handed on, and we also engage with the local community. The apple pulp (pomace) left over after juicing will be used as animal feed and for making compost. As nature guides, we are particularly sensitive to the need to protect the natural environment.”
Sylvain Trigalet, Managing Director
Contact details:
103, rue Alphonse Detal
6920 Froidlieu
0476 48 72 82
pressoir.hortus@gmail.com
