JZ Flowers’ Post

Do cut flowers have to be an ecological nightmare? Most conventional flowers are full of pesticides and have a history of being grown in heated greenhouses and/ or thousands of kilometres by cooled airplanes. No! [Festive music] Enter the hero! https://lnkd.in/emtinG9Y Slow Flowers by Katja Staring. This wonderful book (in Dutch) is a treasure trove of ideas, narratives and best practice examples of cut flowers that are not destroying but healing our environment. My personal highlights of the first half of the book: - Martin Heutink suggests taking Denmark as an example. There, the government pays the certification costs of the biolabel, motivating growers to switch to a poison-free way of working. - Experience the seasons: value the shy nature of the winter and limit yourself to what´s available then. Buying a bouquet of roses on Valentine´s Day is like 'serving a dessert with watery strawberries on Christmas Eve." - Jacolien Cleveringa tells us that even during her professional training, she wasn´t aware of the origin of the flowers or the environmental consequences that they bring with them. - Lack of transparency: p. 41: It´s crazy that at the florist, we don't see where the products are coming from, as is the case for fruit and veggies in the supermarket. Flowers stay anonymous, they don´t tell a story. Take inspiration from France, where you proudly buy wine or cheese from the region. - Mega-impact, p.56: In 2020, the energy consumption of the ornamental plant sector was as big as that of the entire city of Amsterdam! - Julian Langelaan chooses to grow flowers that have a chance in the Dutch climate without chemical tricks: "If you have to make such an effort to grow a specific plant, or if there is such a big chance that something goes wrong, then the question is whether you should grow this plant at all." There is not only the book but also a whole movement with the same name: https://lnkd.in/etXrBuaJ #ornamental #horticulture #climatecrisis #biodiversity

Trade fairs such as spoga+gafa are an important junction for matters regarding responsibility. It is where decisions for the season are made and inspiration strucks. If you want to be part of the change, be part of spoga+gafa 2024! 💚 Deepen your expertise all around this year‘s leading topic „Responsible Gardens“ at spoga+gafa 2024! Why „Responsible Gardens“? The new leading topic is a logical continuation of the past topics and puts responsibility in focus. In an increasingly connected world, the role of personal and collective responsibility for the tackling of global challenges becomes more and more important and therfore takes direct influence on the business world. What does this mean? • minimizing environmental impact • reducing waste of ressources • supporting social equality and economical balance Learn how topics such as resource-saving gardening, fair-produced garden products and low-emission BBQ techniques can impact your business. Together with exhibitors and visitors, spoga+gafa will find individual answers to questions surrounding the leading topic.👇 Take a deep dive into our leading topic and its impact on the market in our magazine: https://lnkd.in/eYrd9sQB #spogagafa2024 #spogagafa #koelnmesse #cologne #tradefair #sustainability #responsibility

🤝 Green sector receives central order date at the beginning of the year The world's leading trade fair for horticulture and Germany's leading marketing organization in horticulture will go even closer together in future: From 28 to 31 January 2025, the Landgard Order Days will take place for the first time at IPM ESSEN at MESSE ESSEN. The decision was announced jointly by Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of MESSE ESSEN, and Dirk Bader, Chairman of Landgard eG, at the latest IPM Advisory Board meeting. "IPM ESSEN is the central marketplace where the global industry meets at the beginning of the year to start the season with new ideas and concepts. With the Landgard cooperation, we are offering the green trade an even more attractive order platform than before," explains Oliver P. Kuhrt. Dirk Bader adds: "The trade in plants and flowers is internationally oriented. The integration of the Landgard Order Days into IPM ESSEN creates synergies and gives the market the opportunity to find out about new products efficiently in one place and to place orders at the same time. We are therefore very pleased that we are expanding our marketing activities at the world's leading trade fair and thus reaching a large audience." At the last Order Days 2024 in Oberhausen, 150 suppliers offered around 3,000 different plants, including many new products. In addition to Germany, the goods also came from neighboring countries such as the Netherlands, Italy and Denmark - all of which are also important exhibitor and visitor nations at IPM ESSEN. Outlook for 2025 Around three months after this year's fair, 80 percent of the space at IPM ESSEN 2025 has already been booked. Already in the re-booking during the last event, 70 percent of the exhibitors decided in favor of a stand at the world's leading trade fair for horticulture. Become exhibitor for IPM ESSEN 2025 here ➡️ https://lnkd.in/eCxh88Dp As usual, Landgard's trade fair presentation will once again include consumer-oriented concepts and collections, which will be presented to trade visitors in atmospheric arrangements and themed worlds. In addition, the "Flower hour" networking event is planned again. #messeessen #ipmessen #weareipmessen #wirsindipmessen #grünebranche #greensector #ipmessen2025 #ipmessen25 #landgard #1000gutegruende #horticulture #orderdays

𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 ‘𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞’ | Bloemenveiling Plantion, Koninklijke Vereniging Bloemist Winkeliers, Smithers-Oasis, and Groothandelscentrum Plantion organized the event ‘Sustainable Business for the Future’ this past Tuesday in Ede. The organizers aim to inspire and inform florists about sustainable opportunities. In addition to several growers, such as Marginpar, Tesselaar Alstroemeria, and Decorum Company, Flower Council of Holland was also present at the event. With a so-called 'trend cabinet,' filled with plants, flowers, and accessories, we showcased the 2025 Horticulture Trend 'Slow Life,' which attracted a lot of enthusiasm. The trend refers to uncertain times, where there is sometimes a need to make the world smaller and more manageable. At home, in our own little bubble, we find safety, trust, and connection. In this way, we reduce loneliness and hardening, even in our surroundings. Additionally, we feel responsible for the climate and our health and actively work on these areas. For this reason, the "Slow life" trend fits perfectly with the theme of ‘Sustainable Business for the Future.’ Many thanks to Elize Eveleens from KLIMPRODUKTIES for bringing the trend cabinet to life. #flowercouncilofholland #plantion #sustainablebusiness #horticulturetrends2025 #slowlife

Why it’s time for Dutch growers to innovate 🌼 Have you ever wondered why floriculture in the Netherlands still relies on outdated buckets for transporting flowers? Despite setting the standard for excellence in greenhouse production, logistics limitations mean Dutch growers are missing out on the opportunity to compete globally. European customers are willing to pay a premium for Dutch flowers, but a significant portion ends up balancing out higher costs. After decades of fantastic innovation, let's revolutionise the Dutch flower supply chain. Transitioning from buckets to boxes or crates promises major benefits, including cost savings, faster transportation, and enhanced flower quality. Let's unlock greater profitability, efficiency, and sustainability together. 📈🌱 Ready to optimise your supply chain? FlowerWatch can help you reach your goals faster. Contact us today for a detailed analysis through our Data-Driven Insights program or to collaborate on innovative solutions with our experts using our R&D sprints. Email us at contact@flowerwatch.com #Floriculture #FlowerFarms #Netherlands #Bloemenkwekerij

In sustainable wine farming in South Africa not only is there a commitment to sustainability, but South African wine farms are unique compared to  international benchmarks.  There are some key, differentiating,sustainability data points on the South African wine industry: 🔹 Implementing water-saving techniques due to the country's water scarcity (drip irrigation and water recycling). 🔹Conserving and regenerating natural habitat biodiversity within their vineyards. 🔹Reducing their carbon footprint through renewable energy usage and innovation. 🔹Community development initiatives, and empowerment programs. Sustainable Wine South Africa (SWSA), indicating a commitment to sustainable practices. In comparison to international benchmarks, South Africa's wine industry differentiates itself through: Particularly proactive in this area, driven by the need to address environmental nuances unique to the region, such as water scarcity and biodiversity conservation. 🔹Diverse landscapes (terroir), leading to unique wine profiles not found elsewhere. 🔹Blending traditional winemaking practices with modern techniques, creating a distinctive identity that reflects the country's rich cultural heritage. 🔹Experimentation with different grape varieties leading to the innovative, exciting and distinctive wines. Try these Southern Cape vineyards that embrace sustainability: Hermanuspietersfontein or HPF - A champion of biodiversity, nestled near Stanford, produces exquisite wines in harmony with local flora and fauna since 2007. Sondagskloof - Pioneers of an ethical, eco-friendly farming revolution in Sandies Glen. Creation Wines - Located in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, Creation is not just a wine farm but a testament to sustainable winemaking, committed to conserving our natural heritage and boasting the EnviroWines accreditation. Hamilton Russell Vineyards - a WWF Conservation Champion, demonstrates a commitment to regenerative farming and conservation efforts, alongside social sustainability initiatives. Each of these estates embodies a commitment to sustainability. By choosing to support them, you're investing in ethical and environmentally conscious business practices that pave the way towards a sustainable future. #SustainableWine #EcoFriendly #Conservation #Sustainability #SouthernCapeWines #bahori #bahoriconsulting

🌏 Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22 for over five decades, underscores the importance of environmental protection and planetary health. 🔦 So today, we spotlight selected Bemakers brand partners who have taken proactive steps to minimize their climate impact.   ⚗ Arbikie Highland Estate transformed their distillery into a laboratory, driven by a commitment to our air, water and soil. Through extensive research, they discovered a groundbreaking solution: the pea. Unlike traditional ingredients like wheat or barley, peas capture all the nitrogen from the air and enrich the soil through their roots, making them a climate-positive choice. 🌱 Arbikie's Nàdar duo, meaning 'nature' in Gaelic, embodies the harmony of nature and science, crafting the world's first climate-positive spirits. Designed with the natural world in mind, Nàdar symbolizes the transformative power of sustainable innovation.   👉🏾 https://lnkd.in/ei5GR8dy & https://lnkd.in/d8S5fyrg   🍺 Gallia has undertaken extensive testing to create a program that benefits both the brewery, the consumers and the planet. Recognizing that packaging contributes significantly to their carbon footprint, they shifted their focus to reuse ♻   By opting for reusable glass bottles instead of single-use ones, Gallia saves water, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and conserves electricity. Their commitment actively encourage consumers to return bottles for reuse, championing sustainability on a broader scale.   👉🏾 https://lnkd.in/dN5NJ6V3   Feragaia aims to reconnect consumers with the Wild Earth through its radically authentic alcohol-free spirit. Their social and environmental policies are substantial and crafted to ensure long-term sustainability. With clearly defined KPIs, Feragaia monitors and manages their progress towards environmental and social goals.   🌾 Through investments in seaweed cultivation, adoption of low-impact, completely chemical-free production methods, and prioritization of eco-friendly logistics, Feragaia is dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet.   👉🏾 https://lnkd.in/dyRgHbpa #earthday #bemakers #brandpartners

How might a cup of coffee help conserve biodiversity, and support smallholder growers? Just ask Black Baza Coffee Co. A Bengaluru-based specialty coffee enterprise, Black Baza Coffee Co. works with over 650 smallholder coffee producers, while conserving biodiversity and supporting fair trade. Here’s why we at The Locavore love them: 1. Black Baza Coffee Co.’s coffee is grown under the shade of native tree species , encouraging a shift from non-native species like Silver Oak, which helps protect the surrounding ecosystem. 2. They work with coffee growers who design collective farming practices that conserve biodiversity, and are based on traditional ecological knowledge about soil and ecosystem health as well as coexisting with wildlife. 3. The knowledge of the growers is further supplemented with information from newer practices, and research undertaken by Black Baza. For instance, when growers in BR Hills were facing leaf rust outbreaks exacerbated by climate change (an anomaly unfamiliar to them) they intervened to provide support on how this fungal outbreak could be managed through organic and regenerative practices. 4. Their Cascara, made from sun-dried coffee pulp can be brewed hot or cold, and it offers a delightful flavour experience with hints of raisins, dates, and prunes! Get yours here: https://lnkd.in/d-W4JczT 5. Beyond their work with coffee, they have facilitated the launch of a YouTube Channel, Kaadina Makkalu, that shares indigenous stories about the forest, wild animals, and birds. These stories have been created by the local community for their youth and others who are passionate to learn more. Watch here: https://lnkd.in/d4uYyxJ4 Read more about how Black Baza Coffee Co. is changing how coffee is consumed: https://lnkd.in/d2iyR24y If, like Black Baza Coffee Co., you’d like to join our incredible #TLpartner producer community, write to us at connect@thelocavore.in or send us a DM. We’d love to hear from you! #TLpartner #BlackbazaCoffee #Bengaluru #Karnataka #Cascara #UpdatedFromTheFields #RegionalIndianFood #LocalProduce #LocalToMe #BeALocavore #TheLocavore #DoingGoodThroughFood

Right now, from May to June, it's the main harvest season for Arnica in Spain. 𝐀𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐨 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 as it boasts remarkable anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an indispensable part of herbal remedies. However, due to climate change, grazing or agricultural monocultures, arnica is exposed to numerous threats. 🌼 Arnica montana atlantica finds its origin in Galicia. This variety of Arnica is known for its low allergy potential – the perfect match for our arnica products and our high-quality standards. Aligned with our sustainability commitment and our company philosophy is the interest in a more sustainable Arnica harvesting and cultivation. This is why we source the arnica flowers for our products through controlled wild harvesting. In a pilot project, we developed innovative cultivation methods, set up sustainability rules and guideline-documents to ensure the sustainable planting and harvesting of future generations of Arnica Montana Atlantica. 🌾 🌿 "The cultivation of Arnica is of great importance to us – in terms of sustainability and raw material quality. Therefore, we will continue to work with full force towards its success.“ (Dr. Andrea Lutz-Röder Project Manager and Head of Laboratory Services at Kneipp) 🌍 After harvesting, the flowers are transported to Germany, where our partner Kräuter Mix GmbH prepares them for further processing. Their skilled team ensures precise cutting before handing them over to Kneipp. From there, the cut flowers undergo the maceration process, where their valuable ingredients infuse into oil – this resulting oil extract forms the basis of Kneipp's Arnica products. 🧪 Let's cherish nature's gifts together and ensure their preservation.  #Kneipp #Arnica #SustainabilityJourney 

GET TO KNOW US! 🫐🥭Colgreens: Authentic flavors from Tolima Colombia, harvested with heart At Colgreens, we cultivate more than just exotics fruits; we cultivate relationships and a sustainable future. We work hand-in-hand with small-scale farmers in Tolima, empowering them to share the unique flavors of our region with the world. Every fruit we export is the result of a careful process that respects the environment. What sets us apart? 🍍🥑🍊🍌 Social commitment: We support small-scale farmers by guaranteeing fair prices and access to international markets. Sustainability: We employ sustainable agricultural practices that preserve water and soil, ensuring a future for generations to come. Premium quality: Our fruits ready to eat are harvested at their peak ripeness and carefully packed to guarantee freshness and flavor. Tradition and modernity: We combine Tolima's agricultural traditions with innovative technologies to offer the highest quality products. Why choose Colgreens? Authentic flavors: Enjoy the unique flavors of Colombian tropical fruits, cultivated in a natural and authentic environment. Guaranteed sustainability: Contribute to a more sustainable future by choosing responsibly grown products. Certified quality: Our fruits meet the highest quality and food safety standards. Social impact: By choosing Colgreens, you're supporting farming communities in Tolima and fostering rural development. Join us on this journey toward a more sustainable and flavorful future. ✈️📲Contact: info@colgreens.com.co 💻Visit: www.colgreens.com.co #exoticsfruits #Colombia #produce #exotics #freshfruit