Understanding the 2024 Sustainable Producer

Methodology

Q2 Where do you grow?

Electronic survey sent to floral and produce producers in September 2024

Results

• 58 Produce responses
• 55 Floral responses

From the following regions:

Sustainability is important & worthy of investment

Q5  How important is sustainability to your company
Q18 Is your company investing in research and innovation for sustainable production?

Top 3 reasons for pursuing Sustainability efforts

Q7  What is the main reason for your company to pursue sustainability?

Retail influence

Q12  Do retailers influence your sustainability practices?
Q28 Would your company benefit from closer collaboration with retailers on sustainability initiatives?

Top 3 ways sustainability drives long term viability

Q26  How do sustainable practices contribute to the long term viability of your business?

Recycling

Q14 Are there recycling initiatives in place for packaging materials and other waste products?
Q15 How are recycling initiative driven?

90%

Have recycling initiatives for packaging materials and other waste.

Driven by:

Future regulations

Q22  How do you perceive the impact of potential future regulations on sustainability in the industry?

64%

Perceive there will be an impact on sustainability by future regulations

• Climate Change Mitigation: Practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon sequestration, renewable energy use, and improved manure management.
• Soil Health and Conservation: Policies promoting soil health through cover cropping, no-till farming, and crop rotation.
• Water Management: Efficient irrigation systems and practices to minimize runoff and pollution.
• Biodiversity: Preserving natural habitats and promoting diverse crop species.
• Waste Reduction: Better waste management practices, including recycling programs for organic waste and agricultural plastics.
• Sustainable Inputs: Use of organic fertilizers and biopesticides to reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals.

Cost savings

Q17  Have you identified any cost savings or economic benefits associated with sustainability initiatives?

57%

Identified cost savings or economic benefits associated with sustainability initiatives

Sustainability efforts can offer significant cost savings for fruit, vegetable, and flower farms.

•  Reduced Input Costs: Crop rotation and organic fertilization lower synthetic input needs.

• Energy Efficiency: Solar panels and efficient irrigation cut energy and water costs.

• Waste Reduction: Composting and recycling reduce waste disposal expenses.

• Improved Yield and Quality: Healthier crops lead to higher yields and better quality.

• Long-term Soil Health: No-till farming and cover crops enhance soil fertility.

• Market Premiums: Sustainable practices can command higher prices.

Sustainability in partner selection

Q21  To what extent does your company consider sustainability criteria in the selection of suppliers and partners within the supply chain?

56%

Sustainability criteria is somewhat/a lot considered in selection of partners

Many farms are increasingly asking their partners about their sustainability practices. 

•  Supply Chain Transparency: Ensuring all partners follow sustainable practices.

• Regulatory Compliance: Verifying partners' adherence to eco-friendly inputs and methods to avoid penalties.

• Market Demand: Collaborating with partners to meet consumer expectations for sustainable products.

• Financial Incentives: Maximizing benefits from markets, subsidies, and grants through sustainable practices.

• Risk Management: Mitigating risks related to environmental impact, resource scarcity, and market fluctuations by ensuring partners' sustainability.

Employee engagement

Q23  How engaged are our employees in sustainability initiatives?

36%

Engage employees in sustainability initiatives

Employee engagement in sustainability efforts is increasingly common and crucial for the success of these initiatives. 

• Leadership Commitment: Leaders visibly support and participate in sustainability initiatives.

• Education and Training: Training sessions and webinars on sustainability.

• Recognition and Rewards: Rewarding employees for contributions to sustainability.

• Integration into Daily Practices: Incorporating sustainability into everyday work life.

• Community Projects: Volunteering opportunities related to environmental conservation.

• Transparent Communication: Regular updates on sustainability goals and achievements.

Top 5 ways sustainability efforts are communicated

Q7  What is the main reason for your company to pursue sustainability?

Farms use various strategies to effectively communicate their sustainability efforts. Here are some of the top ways:

• Sustainability Reports: Detailed reports on practices, achievements, and goals.
• Social Media: Sharing updates, success stories, and educational content.
• Partnerships and Certifications: Collaborating with certification bodies and displaying certifications.
• Website and Blogs: Regular updates on sustainability initiatives and progress.
• Product Labeling: Communicating sustainability credentials on labels and packaging.

Sustainability Standards

Q8  Are you certified in any sustainability standards?
Q9  If yes, which ones?

53%

Are certified in sustainability standards

Top 4 sustainability certifications used:

• Rainforest Alliance
• Flora Verde
• SMETA
• Global Gap

Sustainability certifications may increase:

• Consumer Trust: Certifications provide assurance to consumers that the products they are buying meet specific environmental and social standards. This helps build trust and loyalty.
• Market Access: Many retailers and markets require sustainability certifications for products. Having these certifications can open up new market opportunities and allow farms to reach a broader audience.
• Competitive Advantage: Certified farms can differentiate themselves from competitors by showcasing their commitment to sustainable practices. This can be a significant selling point in a market where consumers are increasingly concerned about sustainability.
• Operational Efficiency: The process of obtaining certification often involves adopting more efficient and sustainable practices, which can lead to cost savings and improved productivity.
• Environmental and Social Impact: Certifications ensure that farms are following practices that protect the environment and support social responsibility, contributing to broader sustainability goals.

Overall, sustainability certifications provide a framework for continuous improvement and help farms achieve long-term viability and success.

Top 6 challenges to adopting sustainability practices

Q11  What challenges do you face in adopting or implementing sustainable practices?

Adopting sustainability practices can be challenging for farms due to several factors:

• Initial Costs: Implementing sustainable practices often requires significant upfront investment in new technologies, equipment, and training. This can be a barrier, especially for small-scale farms with limited financial resources.
• Access to Technology: Many sustainable farming techniques rely on advanced technologies that may not be readily available or affordable for all farmers. This includes precision agriculture tools, renewable energy systems, and efficient irrigation methods.
• Knowledge and Training: Farmers need to be educated about sustainable practices and how to implement them effectively. Lack of access to training and extension services can hinder adoption.
• Market Demand and Incentives: Without strong market demand for sustainably produced goods or sufficient financial incentives, farmers may be reluctant to change their practices. Ensuring there are economic benefits to adopting sustainability is crucial.
• Regulatory and Policy Support: Inconsistent or insufficient policy support can make it difficult for farmers to adopt sustainable practices. Clear regulations and supportive policies are needed to encourage and facilitate these changes.
• Cultural and Social Barriers: Traditional farming practices and resistance to change can also be significant barriers. Engaging the farming community and demonstrating the long-term benefits of sustainability can help overcome these challenges.