Every year on Earth Day, the world pauses to reflect on how we care for our planet. At Flowers of Colombia, this reflection is not limited to a single day; it is the very heart of our purpose. For us, sustainability is not a trend; it is a way of life rooted in every flower we grow, every worker we support, and every ecosystem we protect.
As the world’s second largest flower exporter and the leading producer of carnations, Colombia is globally recognized for the diversity and quality of its flowers. But what truly sets us apart is how we grow them, with deep respect for nature and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Learn more about our environmental practices here: https://flowersofcolombia.co/environmental-commitments/.
More than 6,300 hectares of Colombian flower farms are certified under Florverde Sustainable Flowers, a seal that ensures environmentally and socially responsible practices at every stage of production. Over 57 percent of the water used on these farms comes from rain, collected and stored to reduce pressure on natural water sources. And when it comes to irrigation, 95 percent of farms use efficient drip systems, maximizing every drop. See more about the Florverde certification here: https://www.florverde.org/en/home/.
We have also made significant progress in how we care for our crops. In the past 25 years, chemical pesticide use has been reduced by half, while the use of natural bioinputs has increased by 600 percent. That means healthier flowers, soil, and communities.
Reservoirs on our farms have become habitats for over 158 species of birds, including endemics like the Bogotá Rail. In the past three years alone, more than 50,000 trees have been planted to protect watersheds and restore native forests.
But sustainability does not stop at the harvest. Every Colombian flower farm recycles and reuses its production waste. In addition, more than 20 companies have transitioned to solar energy and natural refrigerants, collectively reducing more than 2,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
Water is the essence of life and of every flower. That is why our growers apply advanced water management practices that reduce waste and protect this precious resource. As highlighted in Thursd’s report on sustainable water use, Colombian flower farms lead with innovation by:
- Reusing and recycling water through closed loop irrigation systems
- Implementing rainwater harvesting technologies
- Treating wastewater before it returns to the environment
- Monitoring usage to improve efficiency and reduce consumption
- These practices not only preserve local water sources but also set an international standard for sustainability in floriculture.
Read the full article here:
https://thursd.com/articles/sustainable-water-use-in-floriculture-industry
Sustainability also means creating value for people. It involves cultivating ethical working conditions, supporting women led households, and investing in education and wellness for over 200,000 workers in Colombia’s flower sector.
From field to vase, Flowers of Colombia represents a commitment to the planet and to the people who make it bloom. So this Earth Day, when you give a flower, give one that gives back to nature, to communities, and to you.
At Flowers of Colombia, sustainability is not a trend. It is our way of life.
Sources: https://flowersofcolombia.co/environmental-commitments/ https://thursd.com/articles/sustainable-water-use-in-floriculture-industry https://www.florverde.org/en/home/
