The global cut flower trade has indirect effects on pollinators, pest species, and worker health through pesticide use, primarily in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Colombia.
Key Facts
The Netherlands accounts for over 50% of global cut flower exports despite most growing occurring in Africa
Kenyan cut flower farms use high levels of pesticides that can affect worker health and local pollinator populations
Pollinators exposed to flower farm pesticides show colony-level effects in surrounding landscapes
Some flower farms are located adjacent to natural habitats creating direct pesticide runoff risks
Fairtrade flower certification includes some environmental standards but not specific wildlife welfare requirements
Welfare Considerations
Cut flower industry wildlife welfare concerns are primarily indirect: pesticide runoff from intensive greenhouse operations affects bees and other pollinators in surrounding natural areas; farmland conversion for flower production reduces habitat for local wildlife. The scale of pesticide use in Kenyan flower growing — historically among the highest of any crop — has documented effects on local pollinator health. Consumer choices for sustainably certified flowers reduce pesticide pressure on local ecosystems.
What You Can Do
Choose Fairtrade or Rainforest Alliance certified cut flowers when buying bouquets
Consider potted native plants as alternatives to cut flowers for longer-lasting gifts
Support retailers sourcing from farms with reduced pesticide programs
Learn about and share the environmental impacts of intensive flower production in flower-growing regions