The Surprising Carbon Footprint Of Fresh Flowers

Actually, it can be pretty bad. 

Cut flowers are a great way to show someone you care, but did you know that they can also have a large impact on the environment? The carbon footprint of cut flowers is created by the transportation and production of the flowers, both of which require large amounts of energy and resources. 

The cut flower industry has a significant carbon footprint due to energy consumption from greenhouse operations, transportation, and manufacturing processes. A recent study found that energy consumption monitoring is not adequately performed, even in certified systems. The study also showed that the export destination determines differences in environmental loads, with the highest impact being on climate change. 

Fortunately, there are several steps people can take to reduce the carbon footprint of cut flowers and make their floral gifts more sustainable.

How To Reduce Cut Flowers’ Carbon Footprint

What The Flower Industry Should Do To Reduce Flowers’ Carbon Footprint

The study recommends reducing impact through shipping possibilities and fertilizer and pesticide reductions. However, it is essential to consider other technical criteria to maintain quality and meet delivery times. The life-cycle assessment method is recommended to evaluate environmental certifications and identify critical points for improvement. 

Generating databases for product and service life cycle and emission levels for specific territories is also necessary.

What You Do To Reduce Flowers’ Carbon Footprint

Grow Your Own Flowers

The first step to reducing the carbon footprint of cut flowers is to grow your own. Growing your own flowers not only reduces the amount of energy and resources needed to transport them, but it can also be a fun, rewarding activity. You can start by choosing a few types of flowers that are known to be easy to grow, such as daisies, daffodils, and zinnias. Plant the seeds in a sunny spot and give them plenty of water and fertilizer. Once the flowers start to bloom, you’ll have a beautiful and sustainable bouquet to give to a loved one.

Buy Local

The second step to reducing the carbon footprint of cut flowers is to buy local. When you buy flowers from a local florist, you’re reducing the amount of energy and resources needed to transport the flowers from a faraway place. Local flowers are also likely to be fresher, meaning they’ll last longer in a vase. If you don’t have access to a local florist, you can also buy flowers from an online retailer that specializes in local blooms.

Make Your Flowers Last Longer

The third step to reducing the carbon footprint of cut flowers is to make them last longer by taking better care of them. This means keeping the flowers in a cool, dry place and changing the water every few days. Additionally, you should add flower enhancer that provides nutrients and helps prevent bacteria growth. 

Any, or all, of these steps can help you enjoy fresh flowers and reduce the carbon footprint of cut flowers and make your floral gifts more sustainable. Growing your own flowers, buying local, and taking better care of them will help ensure that your floral gifts don’t have a negative impact on the environment.