Inputs at Ecocert – interview with Guillaume Héran, Head of the business unit

Hi Guillaume H., can you explain what inputs are and what they are used for?

Inputs, or agricultural supplies, play a crucial role in farming. They include fertilizers, crop protection products, cleaning and disinfection products, as well as additives for human and animal nutrition. In Organic Agriculture, their use is strictly limited, and their compliance is subject to rigorous regulations.

These inputs enable farmers to maintain viable production when they cannot rely only on naturally available resources. They complement agricultural practices while respecting the principles of organic farming. They are not certified organic themselves, but their compliance with organic regulations is essential. These are referred to as Usable in Organic Farming, and this is where we step in.

Can you give us more specific examples of how inputs are used?

The use of inputs varies greatly depending on producers’ needs. For example, a natural fertilizer can be used to enrich the soil and ensure better yields. Another common case involves crop protection products, which help safeguard organic crops from pests or diseases that could destroy them.

Today, nearly 1,200 clients—manufacturers and distributors of inputs—trust us worldwide to verify and guarantee that the products they market comply with the strict standards of organic agriculture.

Why has Ecocert chosen to focus on this sector?

As a global leader in organic certification, it was natural for Ecocert to position itself in this sector. We have a responsibility towards farmers, manufacturers, and consumers to independently ensure that these inputs meet the highest standards. That’s why we created a dedicated service that verifies their compliance with major international regulations (EU, NOP, JAS, etc.).

To enhance transparency, we have also developed a public and free website, www.inputs.bio, where users can access a list of over 10,000 validated products. This toolbox provides valuable support for all organic industry stakeholders by offering clear, reliable, and tailored information.

How will Ecocert’s input services evolve in the coming years?

We are continuously working to enhance the robustness and transparency of our validation processes in response to increasing regulatory demands, as well as expectations from authorities, farmers, and consumers. This includes developing our own "UAB inputs" standard, which will serve as an additional guarantee of trust for all our partners.

We also plan to expand our scope beyond organic farming. For example, we aim to verify and ensure the compliance of inputs with sustainable agriculture and fair trade standards, as well as address decarbonization challenges. This will enable us to meet the needs of a constantly evolving agricultural sector, with solutions tailored to different contexts.

A few words about your teams?

The Inputs department operates in about twenty subsidiaries worldwide and serves clients in over 180 countries. Our teams consist of agronomists, chemists, regulatory experts, auditors, and customer service representatives. This diversity is a true asset and reflects the complexity of working with inputs.

What unites us is a shared ambition: to work towards a more sustainable world. Every day, we support our clients and ensure rigorous validations that align with regulatory requirements. With dedicated employees, an ever-evolving service offering, and ambitious projects, we are committed to continuing our support for more responsible and sustainable agriculture.