FEATURED FRIDAY: Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative Benchmarking: Floriculture’s Green Future

Recently, the Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporter Association (EHPEA) submitted its Code of Practice for Sustainable Flower Production to the Consumer Goods Forum’s (CGF) Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative (SSCI) for benchmarking. This move is set to align EHPEA with global sustainability standards, earning it recognition for its commitment to sustainability. 

Upon this submission, EHPEA will be subject to the SSCI benchmarking process, which essentially evaluates social compliance programs to ensure that sustainable practices are maintained during the primary production stage. By undergoing this rigorous assessment, EHPEA joins other organizations in the industry striving for certification and recognition of their sustainability practices. To date, SSCI has recognized five programs, including BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards), Florverde Sustainable Flowers, FSSC 24000 (Foundation for Food Safety Certification), the Responsible Fishing Vessel Standard, and SIZA (Sustainability Initiative of South Africa).

But what exactly is SSCI benchmarking? What is the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF)? More importantly, what value would this benchmarking bring to EHPEA and other programs, particularly in the floriculture industry?  EHPEA’s decision has sparked curiosity about these questions and more. This article explores the intricacies of the SSCI benchmarking process and how it ensures sustainability standards are not only met but continuously improved—a crucial factor for industries like floriculture, which have a significant social and economic impact.

The Challenge: Social and Environmental Concerns in Floriculture

 

To understand why sustainability certification is critical for the flower industry, consider the troubling conditions highlighted in a recent BBC article. This report highlights the working conditions of flower farm workers in Kenya, raising questions about the industry’s ethical implications. One worker, as interviewed in the article, described frequent exposure to hazardous chemicals, noting the lack of protective gear and the need for stricter regulations.

Further complicating the issue is the overuse of pesticides in floriculture. A report released in September 2023 by the Route To Food Initiative shows that highly hazardous pesticides are still being used in Kenyan farming, some of which are known to cause serious health issues, including cancer. Moreover, another Sustainable Floristry Network (SFN) report also notes that 93 out of 201 substances identified in flower production are banned in the European Union. Yet, they continue to be used in other parts of the world due to lax regulations. This standard discrepancy has led to global concerns over the sustainability and safety of internationally traded flowers.

This is where the SSCI comes in. The SSCI provides clear guidance for the consumer goods industry, ensuring that third-party certification schemes cover key sustainability requirements, including ethical labor practices and environmental responsibility. Through its benchmarking process, the SSCI aims to bring transparency and accountability to industries like floriculture, making it possible for businesses to meet global sustainability expectations.

Understanding the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) and the SSCI

The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) is a global network of retailers, manufacturers, and service providers dedicated to promoting positive change in the consumer goods industry. With over 400 members, CGF works across sectors to tackle challenges such as deforestation, forced labor, food waste, and, more critically, sustainable supply chains. The Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative (SSCI) is one of the CGF’s flagship programs aimed at providing clarity on sustainability practices across various industries, including agriculture and floriculture.

The SSCI was established to ensure that sustainability standards are met throughout the supply chain, from production to distribution. By evaluating third-party auditing, monitoring, and certification schemes, the SSCI creates a benchmark for companies to follow, ensuring that their supply chains are socially and environmentally responsible. It allows companies to earn recognition that signals their commitment to ethical practices and aligns them with global sustainability goals.

SSCI Recognition and Benchmarking: The Process

SSCI recognition is not just a badge of honor; it’s a comprehensive evaluation of a company’s sustainability practices. To initiate the SSCI benchmarking process, an organization must submit an application through the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF), providing details about its sustainability program, after which SSCI conducts a thorough review to assess alignment with its sustainability criteria and best practices. Once accepted, the benchmarking process begins with an in-depth review of an organization’s sustainability program. This includes examining the governance structure, labor practices, environmental management systems, and community engagement initiatives. Once these aspects are verified, the company undergoes public consultation and third-party assessments before receiving the SSCI certification.

Among the programs that have successfully completed this rigorous process is Florverde Sustainable Flowers. This program has earned SSCI recognition for its efforts to improve the social and environmental standards in flower production. Florverde’s SSCI recognition has enhanced its credibility in the global market, ensuring that consumers are purchasing flowers that have been ethically produced and meet international sustainability standards.

This recognition has had a direct impact on Florverde’s operations. By adhering to the SSCI’s standards, Florverde has built a more resilient supply chain, reduced environmental impacts, and improved employee working conditions. As a result, Florverde has solidified its position as a leader in sustainable flower production, gaining the trust of international buyers who prioritize ethical sourcing.

EHPEA’s Potential Benefits from SSCI Benchmarking

For EHPEA, undergoing the SSCI benchmarking process presents a significant opportunity. By aligning its Code of Practice with SSCI standards, EHPEA can improve the transparency and sustainability of Ethiopia’s flower industry. This move will not only enhance EHPEA’s reputation but also provide its members with greater access to international markets that demand high standards for social and environmental responsibility.

The benchmarking process will allow EHPEA to identify gaps in its current practices and make necessary improvements. EHPEA’s CEO recently remarked, “Achieving SSCI recognition will elevate the Ethiopian flower industry to new heights, ensuring our products are competitive in the global marketplace while upholding ethical practices.”

By earning SSCI recognition, EHPEA will be able to demonstrate that Ethiopian flowers are produced with care for both people and the planet. This certification will also provide a competitive edge, allowing EHPEA members to attract more buyers who are committed to sustainability.

In a nutshell 

The floriculture industry, with its wide-reaching social and environmental impact, stands to benefit greatly from the SSCI’s benchmarking process. Flower producers can improve their operations by adopting the SSCI’s standards, ensuring ethical practices, and gaining greater access to international markets. For EHPEA and other industry players, SSCI certification represents a path toward a more sustainable future. As the global demand for ethically sourced products grows, earning the SSCI benchmarking is not only a matter of good practice but an essential step in ensuring the long-term success of the flower industry.

 

This feature was originally published in the October – December 2024 issue of Flowers & Fresh Produce Middle East & Africa Magazine.

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