SUSTAINABLE FLORAL FUND
Empowering Communities Through Flowers
ENHANCING MARKET ACCESS FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED FARMS
We source our flowers from farms using our marketplace technology platform, which connects growers directly to buyers, allowing buyers to set their own prices, build their own brands, and compete more effectively.
No Intermediaries + Known Brand = Growers Make More Money
TARGETING 100%
SUSTAINABILITY BY 2020
We enhance the environmental and social welfare of our partner farms – and their employees – by helping them become sustainably certified. We are committed to achieving 100% sustainability among our partner farms by 2020.SUSTAINABILITY BY 2020
Sustainability Certification = Higher Price +
Cleaner Environment + Improved Living Conditions
Cleaner Environment + Improved Living Conditions
LEADING INDUSTRY-WIDE EFFORT TO INCREASE CERTIFICATION AMONG CUT FLOWER FARMS
Given that most small and medium-sized farms lack the financial and operational resources to become certified, we have established an independent non-profit organization, the Sustainable Floral Fund (SFF), to provide technical assistance to farms seeking certification. SFF will be financed through contributions from KaBloom as well as other industry players, government agencies, and non-profits.
Operational Support + Financial Support = Sustainability Certification
Operational Support + Financial Support = Sustainability Certification
SUPPORTING CAUSES BEYOND FLOWERS
We regularly partner with non-profits outside of the floral industry to develop cause marketing campaigns that raise money in support of important causes. In 2015, we ran campaigns for several prominent non-profit organizations, including the American Red Cross of Massachusetts, Big Sisters of Greater Boston, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.Cause Marketing = Great Product for the Customer + Fundraising for the Non-Profit
INCREASING THE USE OF RECYCLABLE PACKAGING
We are committed to reducing the use of plastic in our packaging materials, so our custom boxes and carrying cases are all made from recycled materials. We are constantly looking for new ways to reduce waste and carbon emissions, and implementing environmentally-conscious practices to ensure a cleaner planet for future generations. Recycled Packaging = Cleaner Environment + Responsible Business
SOCIAL IMPACT OF CERTIFICATION
Sustainably-Certified farms must meet the basic labor conditions set out by the ILO and national laws to ensure safe, healthy, and equitable work environments. Certified farms adhere to maximum working hours and promote worker training and development. They are also encouraged to provide social security coverage and support local communities through a variety of initiatives, such as local purchasing, hiring, and infrastructure improvements. Given that women make up the vast majority of farm workers, certified farms are also required to protect the rights of women and mothers.
ENVIRONMENT IMPACT OF CERTIFICATION
Sustainably-Certified farms must reduce the environmental impact of cut flower farming by encouraging growers to implement efficient and sustainable farming techniques focused on reducing pesticide use, conserving water, and sustaining healthy ecosystems. Certified farms must implement pest control practices that minimize environmental harm, including avoiding the use of banned chemicals and reducing the use of dangerous chemical product through alternative pest control and fertilization practices. Farms are also encouraged to conserve natural resources by implementing water efficient irrigation technologies, monitoring and optimizing water usage, and implementing other environmentally-sustainable practices around energy use, greenhouse gas reduction, and product packaging. Finally, certified farms are encouraged to take steps to protect wildlife and habitat; provide safe storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals; and recycle or compost waste when possible.Watch Sustainability Video
