Sustainability gains momentum in floral industry despite challenges, new survey reveals

USA – A recent survey by the Floral Marketing Fund (FMF) in collaboration with researchers from Mississippi State University (MSU) and Texas State University (TSU) reveals the growing adoption of sustainable practices in the floristry industry.

The study, titled “Perceptions of Environmentalism and the Use of Sustainable Floral Design Practices within the Floral Industry,” involved over 450 floral professionals, primarily from traditional retail floral shops, and examined the incorporation of eco-friendly practices and the barriers florists face.

Consumer demand for sustainability is driving change in the floral industry. According to the survey, 39% of couples now consider sustainability when planning wedding flowers.

This reflects a broader trend of eco-conscious consumption, with florists shifting to meet this demand.

Many are choosing to source flowers locally, a move that reduces transportation emissions while supporting regional economies.

A participating florist explained, “Local sourcing has significantly improved the freshness and quality of our products while helping us stay environmentally conscious.”

The floristry industry has historically contributed to environmental concerns, including carbon emissions, water usage, and chemical pollution.

However, the adoption of sustainable practices has increased, with florists implementing measures such as organic farming and waste reduction.

Organic farming methods help reduce pesticide use and promote biodiversity. Meanwhile, waste reduction efforts include the use of biodegradable packaging materials and recycling programs that encourage the reuse of vases.

Technological innovations have also made sustainability more achievable, with modern irrigation systems helping to conserve water and hardier flower varieties allowing for more resilient and eco-friendly cultivation. “Our new irrigation systems have cut our water usage dramatically,” one expert said.

Despite these advancements, the survey highlighted several challenges in implementing sustainable practices.

High costs were a major barrier, with many florists finding it difficult to afford eco-friendly alternatives. Additionally, a lack of consumer awareness makes it hard to justify the higher prices of sustainable products.

While many florists are already adopting sustainable methods, only a fraction actively markets these efforts to their customers.

“We’ve taken several steps toward sustainability, but it’s not always easy to get customers on board,” one respondent explained. The study suggests that more educational resources are needed to help florists communicate the benefits of sustainability to their clients.

The survey shows that the demand for sustainable floral products has grown by 47% over the past five years, with 65% of consumers now preferring to buy flowers from local florists.

Sales of certified sustainable flowers have increased by 10%, and the market for eco-friendly floral products is projected to reach USD 6.3 billion globally by 2025.

While challenges remain, the floristry industry is making significant progress toward sustainability, driven by both consumer demand and industry innovation. As this trend continues, the future of floristry looks increasingly green.