How and where to buy eco friendly flowers? (updated, 2023)
Buying eco-friendly flowers is an excellent way to support sustainable agriculture and reduce the environmental impact of the floral industry. How can we support this sustainable agriculture? Where to buy eco-friendly flowers?
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What does eco-friendly mean?
“Eco-friendly” means that a product is designed and produced in a way that has a minimal negative impact on the environment. This can include several aspects such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, using fewer natural resources, avoiding the use of harmful chemicals, and promoting sustainable practices.
For example, eco-friendly products can be made from recycled materials, use renewable energy sources, or be biodegradable, meaning they can decompose naturally and not contribute to pollution. Eco-friendly practices can also include reducing waste and promoting responsible disposal, such as composting or recycling.
Things you need to know before you buy eco-friendly flowers
Look for local and seasonal flowers:
Locally grown and seasonal flowers are more sustainable because they require less transportation and fewer resources to produce.
Choose organic or pesticide-free flowers:
Flowers that are grown without pesticides or other chemicals are safer for the environment and for the people who work with them.
Check the certifications:
Look for certifications like Veriflora or Rainforest Alliance, which indicate that the flowers were grown sustainably and with consideration for the environment and workers.
Consider the packaging:
Choose flowers that come in minimal, recyclable packaging, or opt for loose stems that can be arranged in your own vase.
Shop at eco-friendly florists:
Look for florists that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness in their practices. Some florists specialize in eco-friendly arrangements and may have a wider selection of sustainable flowers.
Ask questions:
Don’t be afraid to ask your florist or supplier about their growing practices, certifications, and packaging.
Use alternative options:
If you can’t find eco-friendly flowers, consider using alternative options like potted plants or dried flowers, which have a lower environmental impact.
Where to buy eco-friendly flowers in the US?
There are several options for buying eco-friendly flowers in the US. Here are some places you can look:
Local florists:
Check out local florists in your area who specialize in sustainable and eco-friendly flowers. They may have a selection of organic or locally-grown flowers and can provide information on their growing practices.
Farmers markets:
Many farmers markets sell locally grown and seasonal flowers that are more sustainable than flowers that have been shipped from far away.
Online flower delivery services:
There are several online flower delivery services that specialize in eco-friendly flowers, such as Enjoy Flowers and offer responsibly grown, Rainforest Alliance-certified flowers. Farmgirl Flowers, and Bloom Nation often use sustainable growing practices and minimal packaging.
Whole Foods Market:
Whole Foods carries a selection of eco-friendly flowers that are certified by Veriflora or other sustainable certification programs.
Local farms and gardens:
Check out local farms and gardens that grow flowers using sustainable practices. Many offer u-pick options, where you can pick your own flowers directly from the farm.
DIY:
Consider growing your own flowers or arranging dried flowers or potted plants for a more sustainable option.
Where to Buy Eco-Friendly Flowers in the UK?
If you’re looking to buy eco-friendly flowers in the UK, here are some options:
Online flower delivery services:
There are several online flower delivery services that specialize in eco-friendly flowers, such as Bloom & Wild, Arena Flowers, and Freddie’s Flowers. These companies often use sustainable growing practices and minimal packaging.
Whole Foods Market:
Whole Foods carries a selection of eco-friendly flowers that are certified by Veriflora or other sustainable certification programs.
Waitrose & Partners:
Waitrose & Partners offers a selection of eco-friendly flowers, including British-grown and Fairtrade options.
Local farms and gardens:
Check out local farms and gardens that grow flowers using sustainable practices. Many offer u-pick options, where you can pick your own flowers directly from the farm.
Where to buy eco-friendly flowers in Australia?
Online flower delivery services:
There are several online flower delivery services that specialize in eco-friendly flowers, such as Flowers Across Melbourne, Little Flowers, and Urban Flower. These companies often use sustainable growing practices and minimal packaging.
Local farms and gardens:
Check out local farms and gardens that grow flowers using sustainable practices.
Floristry wholesalers:
If you are a florist or need larger quantities of flowers, you can look into floristry wholesalers that specialize in eco-friendly flowers. For example, Tesselaar Flowers has a sustainability program that includes eco-friendly and Fairtrade flowers.
Should we buy eco-frindly flowers?
Yes, buying eco-friendly flowers is a great way to support sustainable agriculture and reduce the environmental impact of the floral industry. Conventional flower farming can involve heavy use of pesticides and fertilizers, as well as transportation emissions from shipping flowers across long distances. This can have negative impacts on the environment and the health of workers and local communities.
Eco-friendly flowers, on the other hand, are grown using sustainable practices that prioritize environmental and social responsibility. This can include using natural pest control methods, conserving water, and supporting local communities. By buying eco-friendly flowers, you are supporting these sustainable practices and contributing to a more sustainable and responsible floral industry.
In addition, eco-friendly flowers can be just as beautiful and high-quality as conventional flowers. So, not only are you making a positive impact on the environment, but you are also getting a great product.
