As global markets place increasing emphasis on responsible sourcing, traceability, and social and environmental compliance, certification schemes are playing a critical role in enabling producers to remain competitive. In this context, Florverde Sustainable Flowers continues to strengthen its international impact by supporting small-scale flower growers on their pathway toward globally recognized sustainability standards.
Florverde has evolved into a robust, internationally aligned sustainability standard that enables certified companies to access demanding markets such as the European Union and international wholesalers, many of which require compliance with FSI-recognized standards. Florverde is one of the certifications recognized under this framework, and starting in 2026, compliance with such standards will become mandatory for suppliers seeking to remain in these markets. This is made possible through Florverde's comprehensive evaluation of social, environmental and Good Agricultural Practices indicators, ensuring alignment with international expectations.
© Florverde Sustainable Flowers
Beyond market access, Florverde's high standards allow producers to comply not only with regulations in their countries of origin but also with requirements in destination markets, offering an added layer of assurance across global supply chains. This approach positions certified growers above baseline legal compliance and strengthens their long-term commercial viability.
In 2025, Florverde consolidated a pilot program specifically designed to support small flower producers, reinforcing the idea that sustainability certification is not exclusive to large-scale operations. The program was structured to strengthen technical, regulatory and management capacities, helping small growers close gaps and prepare for certification under internationally demanding frameworks.
Through a structured accompaniment process, participating growers received guidance on self-assessment, documentation, compliance, traceability and continuous improvement. Since February, nearly 20 technical sessions have been conducted, initially on an individual basis and later in group settings to foster collective learning and process standardization. By the end of the year, on-site technical visits and internal audits supported participants in advancing toward certification readiness.
© Florverde Sustainable Flowers
The results have been tangible. Initial compliance levels averaging 55 percent increased to more than 85 percent, reflecting significant progress in management systems, regulatory understanding, sustainable practices, workforce training, circular economy initiatives and data-driven decision-making. These improvements position small producers to integrate more effectively into international supply chains that demand transparency, consistency and accountability.
Florverde's approach continues to gain traction at a broader regional level. More than 60 small producers across Latin America are currently certified or in advanced stages of certification, underscoring the relevance of Florverde as a globally applicable sustainability pathway capable of supporting producers in diverse geographic and operational contexts.
© Florverde Sustainable Flowers
A defining contribution of this initiative lies in its focus on producers with less than 10 hectares of cultivated area. By prioritizing these growers, Florverde actively challenges the perception that only large companies can achieve certification and access high-value international markets. At the same time, the program represents a strategic investment in global sustainability, supporting growing companies from an early stage and embedding responsible practices as their operations scale.
"Our goal is to demonstrate that sustainability is achievable at any scale. Supporting small producers from the outset allows them to grow with strong social, environmental and operational foundations, while contributing to more resilient global supply chains," said Daniela España, Director of Florverde Sustainable Flowers.
Looking ahead to 2026, Florverde aims to certify all companies participating in the pilot program and expand its reach to additional small producers, strengthening internal capacities and broadening territorial coverage. This expansion reflects a long-term vision: fostering inclusive, competitive and sustainable floriculture that responds to evolving global market requirements while generating positive social and environmental impact.
By supporting small growers in meeting internationally recognized standards, Florverde is helping ensure that sustainability becomes a shared global practice, one that enables growth, inclusion and long-term resilience across the flower industry.
For more information:
Florverde Sustainable Flowers
[email protected]
florverde.org/
