The floriculture sector is developing rapidly in terms of sustainability. The number of sustainable developments and products is growing rapidly. That the floriculture sector is embracing these developments itself is a positive and promising step for the future. The professional jury is immensely proud that no fewer than 11 good candidates were selected after careful deliberation.
The final assessment is determined 50% by the professional jury and 50% by the public, who can vote online in advance. Below are all the nominees for 2024. Which product or concept do you think deserves the Greenovation Award? Cast your vote now!
In the video, all finalists talk about their innovation. Below is a short summary in text.
Organically and energy-neutrally grown summer flowers by Maurits Keppel
‘As a grower, I grow a diverse palette of summer flowers, completely organic and energy-neutral thanks to solar panels. Every step is eco-friendly and with an eye for nature. Our flowers bloom better in the vase and without stress. This is the future of floriculture,’ says Maurits.
Recy Clear by Paardekooper
Paardekooper developed the crystal clear flower and plant sleeves and films from recycled plastic waste. Available in all sizes, fully printable and with a lower carbon footprint. The sustainable packaging presents flowers optimally and saves material without compromising on quality. The concept is underpinned by an LCA, which scientifically demonstrates the lower footprint than other products.
Sleeve Mako by Koen Pack BV
Mako flower sleeves are made of 70% recycled plastic (PCR-Post Consumer Recyclate) and give waste a new life. They reduce CO2 emissions and waste, which is good for the planet and the circular economy. Suitable for a variety of bouquets.
Natural Collection by Lekkerkerk Green Business BV
Discover the future of gardening with our sustainable paper plant pots! Made from recycled paper, they offer an eco-friendly alternative to plastic. The move to plastic-free products such as paper plant pots reflects a positive movement towards a more sustainable future.
Silphie Paper Packaging by Decowraps Europe BV
Decowraps Europe's Silphie paper packaging is partly made from the Silphie plant (sunflower). The fibres from this plant are used for paper production, reducing the need for trees. This sustainable paper protects ornamental plants and contributes to biodiversity and soil quality. A nice step towards a circular floriculture sector.
Growing without chemicals by Pinc Plants
After years of research, Pinc Plants is now successfully growing potted gerberas without chemicals. This is done by pumping air into the water, which improves water quality. The process includes water quality, soil quality, nutritional balance and minerals. Monthly leaf juice analyses ensure balance. It is easily adopted by other growers. They have gone from spraying chemicals once a week to nothing in 1 year in 5 years.
Euro Plant Tray by Euro Plant Tray
Over the past two years, the 30 international members of Euro Plant Tray have developed four models of the Euro Plant Tray. Delivered from August 2024, these reusable plant trays aim to avoid 40,000 tonnes of plastic waste and 220,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. They can be bought and rented across Europe. Working with all companies and steps in the supply chain, this could become the new industry standard.
Reusable Flower Eco Sheet by De Wit Bloembollen BV
The Eco Sheet is a reusable packaging for flowers that reduces waste and saves costs. Developed for B2B, it offers certifications for sustainability. By using less paper, it reduces environmental impact and is easy to customise for export. The Eco Sheet is easily adaptable to other cut flower packaging. A combination of greening, labour and cost savings!
APP Flowercrate by Argos Packaging & Protection
The reusable flowercrate, developed with flower exporters (Celdomy, Heemskerk Flowers, Van der Plas), is more environmentally friendly than single-use cardboard packaging when used at least 20 times. The crate, made of sustainable HPDE, lasts at least 10 years with normal use, reduces waste, has additional functions and promotes sustainability in the floriculture sector.
PureFiber™ Horti Tray by Stora Enso
Made from renewable wood fibre, the tray reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 81% compared to polystyrene trays. It fits into existing logistics chains, is recyclable, reusable and produced with 100% bio-based energy, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice for plant transport. It can be reused up to 7 times and can be included in cardboard recycling.
OK compost home paper sleeve with pull-out coupon by Clayrton's
The innovative flower sleeve is a certified compost packaging, allowing both flowers and packaging to be composted. Made in France with PEFC-certified paper and water-based inks, it has a patented pull-out coupon for protection and aesthetic presentation, and significantly reduces its carbon footprint.
Greenovation Award
Sustainable innovations or developments in floriculture are increasingly the norm: international consumers expect action around sustainability. Growers and traders are increasingly aware of its importance. Royal FloraHolland stimulates innovation and sustainability in the chain and has therefore created the Greenovation Award. With this, Royal FloraHolland offers an extra stage for sustainable developments.
Which product or concept do you think deserves the Greenovation Award?
