The Society of American Florists strongly encourages environmental stewardship and social responsibility by floral industry business owners in every part of the chain of distribution.

When applied to a business model, environmental stewardship means operating a business in a way that reduces its impact on the environment for the benefit of both present and future generations.

A business that is socially responsible is one that operates under a code of behavior that serves employees, customers and the general community in an ethical and lawful way and is committed to providing a pleasant and productive workplace.

The Society of American Florists also supports efforts by other organizations including local, state or federal governments, as well as foreign governments, to encourage environmental stewardship and social responsibility for all.  At the same time, SAF asserts the need for open communication between government officials and the industry to ensure a climate that promotes and encourages business prosperity.

Organizations

• American National Standards Institute
• Florverde® Sustainable Flowers
• Leonardo Academy
• Flor Ecuador
• VeriFlora
• Fair Flowers, Fair Plants
• Fair Trade Certified Flowers
• Clearinghouse for certification programs

What does “sustainability” mean?

The 2005 World Summit defined the pillars of sustainable development as:

• Economic Development
• Social Development
• Environmental Protection

Businesses that practice sustainability operate with the goal of preserving quality interactions with the environment, economy and social systems.