The problem with the fresh flower industry
Fresh cut flowers are a popular gift and decoration, but their environmental impact is often overlooked. From the resources required to farm and transport them, to the use of pesticides and other chemicals, to their short lifespan and resulting waste, the production and consumption of cut flowers can contribute to environmental degradation and climate change.
The farming and transportation of cut flowers require significant amounts of energy, water, and other natural resources. Flowers are often grown in countries with warm climates and then transported long distances to reach their destination, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Additionally, flower farming requires large amounts of water, which can put a strain on local water resources in areas where water is already scarce.
By April 2019, Colombia, one of the leading flower producers globally, had 8,597 hectares of land allocated for export flower production, which employs over 1.7 million kilograms of pesticides. The cultivation of a single rose requires 9 litres of water four times a week. The transportation of flowers from field to vase involves refrigerated vehicles and air freight, leading to significant CO2 emissions due to the long journey from Colombia to various destinations. The replacement of one weekly bouquet contributes to 56 kg of CO2 emissions annually. Out of total flowers, 45% become unusable due to damage during transportation, which leads to massive waste. Despite being perceived as innocent, flower arrangements have a considerable impact on global issues.
Our solution
Preserved Flowers are the more sustainable choice when it comes to flowers. Preserved flowers are not artificial, they are 100% natural and through a preservation process like our blooms maintain their fresh appearance for longer. Preserved flowers lower carbon footprint, they last long, therefore cutting down on production and transportation of flowers, resulting in lowering CO2 emissions.
Preserve flowers help with Water conservation.It is expected that climate change will bring increases in average global temperatures (1.4°C–5.8°C by 2100) and precipitation levels. These changes will significantly affect the quality and availability of water, as the hydrological cycle is intimately linked with climate change, and specifically with greenhouse gas in the earth's atmosphere associated with global warming.
In conclusion, the production and consumption of fresh cut flowers can have negative environmental impacts. It is important for consumers to consider the environmental impact of cut flowers and make more sustainable choices to help protect the planet.