Transitional Flowers
Transitional growers are adopting organic farming practices, have the
intention of completing organic certification and who are currently
under the oversight of a USDA accredited organic certification agency
but are within the 3 year required process to reach certification
status. Although there is no assurance the growers will achieve
organic status, it is important to support growers who are dedicated
to the process and have made the commitment to transition their farms
to organic practices.
Eco Friendly Flowers
Products that are labeled "eco-friendly" are not certified by an
official government or independent standard but are deemed sustainable
based on one or more of the following practices:
- a) the use of
materials which are recycled, recyclable, tree-free, biodegradable,
compostable, post-consumer, wild crafted, all-natural, and/or printed
with vegetable-based inks
- b) manufactured or transported using carbon
offsets, renewable or efficient energy, and/or little to no toxic
chemicals
- c) produced using organic farming practices but are not
certified under the USDA National Organic Program; d)check to see if a
portion of the sale proceeds are donated to non-profit organizations
dedicated to wildlife & land conservation, ecological restoration, and
environmental protection.
To reduce the packaging waste burden, fresh flower arrangements are
created in containers which are biodegradable and can be safely
composted. For wrapping and protecting beautiful bouquets, natural
materials are used such as hessian, paper, cornstarch film, cotton,
jute, raffia. All giving a premium quality finishing touch to the
overall design. When decorative finishes are used in the designs,
every effort is made to ensure that they do not add to environmental
problems. On the rare occasion that this is not possible, try to
replenish what has been borrowed from the environment, for example by
planting a native tree or shrub.
Locally Produced Flowers
Locally produced flowers, foliage and plants make perfect
environmental sense--they don't spend days traveling so they're
fresher, they don't incur air miles and they support the local economy.
Ask for local suppliers when you have the option.
Socially Responsible Flowers
Products that are labeled "socially responsible" are not certified by
an official government or independent standard but are deemed worthy
based one or more of the following practices:
- a) sourced from farmers
and artisans who re-invest in the infrastructure of their local
communities through education, healthcare, and/or economic development
projects
- b) sourced from farmers and artisans who are employed by
companies that provide safe and just working conditions, a livable
wage, and adequate health and education benefits
- c) a portion of the
sale proceeds are donated to non-profit organizations dedicated to
social justice, human rights & welfare, and animal rights
- d) produced
without animal testing or cruelty and are either vegetarian or vegan.
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