Since May 23, 2022, sheep have also become an integral part of the scenery at the Verneuil L’Etang mill!
We have entered into an eco-grazing agreement at the site, which allows us to improve our biodiversity footprint—another step forward in advancing our “Link by GMP” CSR commitments in support of the climate. It not only reduces the use of combustion-powered mowers but also fosters collaboration with a local ESAT, all while having a positive impact on biodiversity.
Eco-grazing: What Is It?
Eco-grazing is “the maintenance of green spaces and natural habitats through the grazing of herbivorous animals” (definition from Larousse).
In practical terms, this involves introducing herbivores (sheep, goats, cows, horses, etc.) to green spaces and using their feeding habits to maintain the environment.
This traditional technique, which hasa low environmental impact, wasabandoned for several years in favor of modern technology. Yet thiseco-friendly solution formaintaining green spaces offers many advantages:
- Conservation of hard-to-reach areas (wetlands, scrubland, undergrowth, slopes, etc.)
- Fuel and electricity savings
- Costs associated with the collection of yard waste
- Elimination of machinery or pesticides that pollute the environment
- Soil fertilization and promoting biodiversity
Eco-grazing at the Verneuil Mill
The two sheep that arrived in May 2022 are now joined by three lambs. They are enjoying the green spaces surrounding our mill in Verneuil-l’Etang. The arrival of these animals at our Verneuil-l’Etang site has made it possible to completely replace the mowing of the 8,000-square-meter wooded park, which had previously been done using gas-powered mowers.
Since sheep alone cannot maintain the entire area, the few remaining small patches of grass are mowed by employees of Grands Moulins de Paris.
To further enhance the positive impact of our mill on local communities, landscaping maintenance (pruning, brush clearing, leaf blowing, etc.) has been entrusted to an ESAT located 20 km from the mill. This medical-social facility employs 70 workers with brain injuries to support their transition into the workforce. A group of 5 to 6 team members, accompanied by an instructor, comes five times a year.
“There may have been some hesitation at the start of the eco-grazing project, particularly regarding concerns about odors from the sheep and the fact that the lawn would no longer be mowed ‘close to the ground’ as we were used to with lawnmowers. Since the sheep arrived, those concerns have vanished.”
"The animals have grown accustomed to their surroundings. At first they used to hide in the undergrowth, but now they come close to the mill and the staff. There’s something soothing about watching them graze and seeing how they’ve adapted. We’re taking the time to rediscover nature right here at our mill!"
Cindy Desreumaux, QHSE Manager at the Verneuil L’Etang mill
