The Sustainable Floristry Network is an independent education organisation delivering online training for florists worldwide. Founded in Australia by professional florist Rita Feldmann, the SFN has been working since 2018 to create a new global standard for floristry that supports a sustainable future industry.
Our organisation evolved from the #nofloralfoam movement, which saw florists from all over the world abandon the use of this environmentally harmful, single-use plastic. However, there is a lot more to ‘sustainable floristry’ than just floral foam.
Applying Sustainability to Floristry
The SFN brings together the knowledge of academics, peak bodies and industry leaders to champion a more sustainable industry. We begin with the science of sustainability, then apply it to floristry, guided by expert advisors from a broad range of disciplines.
The SFN’s mission supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals, targets set by the Paris Agreement and an industry transition to a circular economy. We’re a member of the One Planet network and the Ellen Macarthur Foundation community, and we are very fortunate to work collaboratively with the UK’s Sustainable Cut Flowers Project.
Industry Education
Our evidence-based, continuing professional development programme ‘Flowers 2030’ teaches florists how to be more sustainable in business and design. The SFN does not accredit or audit individuals or businesses as sustainable florists. Instead, we teach skills for better decision-making, with the objective of seeing positive change throughout connected supply chains.
Florists who participate in the programme and commit to the SFN Design and Business Principles can become SFN Members Florists and join the directory. SFN Member Florists put their sustainability values into practice through behaviour change in the workplace and their commitment to education.
Consumer Education
The SFN also promotes sustainable floristry to consumers. Our directory helps consumers find florists who are committed to sustainable floristry practices and our library of consumer-focused resources guide better choices for cut flowers and floral designs, funerals and weddings.
The SFN regularly engages with the media to promote our message and activities — we want the word to get out!
