Sustainable Floristry: Navigating the Global Flower Industry with Professor David Bek
An Interview by Roz Chandler
The floristry industry is at a crossroads. As the demand for fresh flowers continues to grow, so do concerns about the environmental and the social impact of global cut flower production, sourcing, and transportation. To explore this crucial topic, I interviewed David Bek, Professor of Creative Economies and Ecological Sustainability at Coventry University. Professor Bek is a leading expert in sustainability and the flower industry, and our conversation, which aired on my podcast, shed light on the challenges facing the industry and the steps florists, consumers, and growers can take to create a more ethical and sustainable future.
The Reality of the Global Flower Industry
Professor Bek highlights the fact that the cut flower industry is a truly global business. Many of the cut flowers sold in the UK travel thousands of miles before reaching the hands of consumers. Large-scale production often relies on intensive farming practices, high water consumption, chemical inputs, and exploitative labour conditions.
One of the biggest concerns is the carbon footprint of imported flowers. Many are grown in warmer climates like Kenya, Ecuador, and Colombia, then transported via air freight to markets across Europe and North America. This process results in significant emissions, making the industry a key player in global sustainability discussions.
Additionally, the industry’s dependence on artificial fertilisers and pesticides not only depletes soil health but impacts the well-being of farm workers who are exposed to these chemicals daily. Ethical concerns around fair wages, worker rights, and biodiversity loss further complicate the picture.
The Path to Sustainable Floristry
While the challenges are substantial, Professor Bek emphasises that there are tangible ways to shift towards sustainability. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:
1. Embracing Seasonality
Choosing flowers that are in season locally reduces the need for energy-intensive production methods, such as heated greenhouses or air-freighted imports. As Professor Bek puts it, “Seasonality is especially important as a driver of lower impacts, as fewer inputs are needed for production.”
By aligning floral choices with natural growing cycles, florists and consumers can dramatically reduce their carbon footprint whilst supporting biodiversity in their region.
2. Supporting Local and Ethical Growers
Sourcing flowers from local flower farms or growers who prioritise sustainable practices helps cut down on emissions and supports small-scale, ethical businesses. Many UK-based flower farmers are leading the charge in growing without harmful chemicals and reducing floral waste.
Supporting initiatives like Flowers from the Farm or independent growers who practice regenerative agriculture ensures that more florists and consumers have access to ethically sourced blooms.
3. Rethinking Waste and Floral Foam
The floristry industry generates a considerable amount of waste, from plastic packaging to floral foam — a material that is non-biodegradable and harmful to the environment. Professor Bek stresses the importance of exploring foam-free alternatives and reusing materials wherever possible.
New techniques such as moss-based mechanics, reusable chicken wire, and compostable binding materials are gaining traction. The industry is slowly moving towards a more circular economy, where waste is minimised and resources are continuously repurposed.
4. Encouraging Consumer Awareness
Florists and flower buyers alike play a crucial role in driving change. By asking questions about sourcing and sustainability, consumers can push for more responsible practices. Professor Bek points out that transparency in the supply chain is essential to making real progress.
Consumers should look for certifications like Fairtrade Flowers and Veriflora, which ensure ethical and sustainable growing practices. Additionally, florists can educate their customers on the benefits of choosing locally grown, pesticide-free flowers over conventionally imported ones.
The Future of Sustainable Floristry
My conversation with Professor Bek made it clear that the floristry industry is evolving, but that there is still work to be done. Whilst some florists and growers have already embraced sustainable practices, there is a need for more education, investment, and systemic changes within the supply chain.
Collaboration between industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers will be key in addressing these challenges. More funding for sustainable flower farming, better working conditions for growers, and increased consumer awareness campaigns are needed to accelerate progress.
What’s Next?
The industry is on the cusp of a major transformation, but collective action is required. Education and collaboration between growers, florists, and consumers are key to ensuring cut flowers remain a joy without harming the planet.
If you want to dive deeper into this topic, listen to the full podcast episode where Dr. Bek shares even more insights on the future of sustainable floristry.
➡️ Learn more about the Sustainable Flowers Research Project
What are your thoughts on sustainable floristry? Let’s continue the conversation!