Three new members representing production and trade were introduced at the General Assembly:
• BGI – Verband des Deutschen Blumen- Groß- und Importhandels e.V is the Association of the German Flower Wholesale and Import Trade. As representative for one of the biggest European markets for flowers and plants, BGI takes sustainability matters for the German floriculture industry very seriously. Answering the question of how the German wholesalers will face future industry challenges, BGI encourages all actors to work in cooperation towards a global and sustainable market. It should be profitable to all participants and be the foundation for future generations to continue good and responsible business.
• Expoflores, the Association of Flower Growers and Exporters of Ecuador and their sustainability Standard, FlorEcuador Certified® joined FSI as representative of the Ecuadorian flower grower sector. Expoflores’ main purpose is to provide services to its members and to promote social and environmental responsibility. As a new member of FSI, FlorEcuador Sustainability Standard will update to a 3.0 revised version and start the benchmarking process to become part of the FSI Basket of Standards. Furthermore, the organisation is supporting the international approach and recognition of FSI globally.
• Dutch breeder Royal Van Zanten has an international presence on all continents, and as such takes its social and environmental responsibility very seriously. As new FSI member, Royal van Zanten is committed to reduce the use of crop protection chemicals and for this reason, they are focusing on breeding varieties that are resistant to plant diseases. They are also committed to good citizenship in every country in which they work, ensuring that local communities can benefit from their success and workers are given opportunities to grow and take up management positions.
