Colombia ranks as the second largest supplier of flowers in the world - preceded only by the Netherlands - thanks to the quality of its crops, the variety of species and the characteristics of the soil, which allow it to maintain a continuous supply throughout the year.
Roses, carnations, alstroemerias, chrysanthemums and hydrangeas are some of the varieties most sought after by consumers in the United States, China, Japan, the United Kingdom, Canada and the Netherlands, among others. On the other hand, roses are the most exported variety by the country (33%) to various parts of the world.
In this scenario, and understanding that roses have become a flagship product from Colombia, they have conquered markets where regulations have started to be updated to demand sustainable practices, in line with the care of the environment, Smurfit Kappa, a
leading company in the elaboration of paper-based packaging solutions, worked on the development of a new proposal for the transportation of Colombian roses.
Specifically, this development responds to a new challenge for flower growers, as is the case in the United States, where large retail chains have defined plans to have plastic-free operations; or in the European Union, where there are laws such as the ‘Plant Health Act 2016/2031’ which aims to mitigate the excessive use of materials that negatively impact on climate change.
It is a 'Kraft' paper wrapper from renewable sources, recyclable, and biodegradable, and hygroscopic (capable of absorbing humidity from the environment), which prevents the growth of fungi. Cut to size, the wrapping guarantees the protection of the bunches during the transport process; it is cost-efficient and reduces PET (polyethylene terephthalate) consumption by approximately 500 metric tons per year.
It is worth mentioning that this packaging solution designed by Smurfit Kappa not only responds to a need of rose growers, but also of those of flower traders and consumers at the final destination, who during the last few months have been increasingly demanding in terms of minimizing the use of unsustainable materials. It is more and more important for them to have suppliers who support and share their sustainable and environmentally responsible purposes.
"We are constantly looking for ways to support our clients through more sustainable packaging solutions, which are in line with new consumer trends and with growing environmental awareness, hence this solution, which seeks to support the flower growing sector to anticipate and be in line with the requirements of the markets " said Jose Maria Estela, General Manager Smurfit Kappa Bogota.
For more information:
Smurfit Kappa
www.smurfitkappa.com