Netherlands flower industry moves toward organic and local cultivation

The Dutch flower industry is facing a shift toward sustainability as entrepreneurs seek to address environmental concerns. Silke Tijkotte and Denise Collignon are working to transform the sector by promoting locally grown, organic flowers through local florists.

Traditional industry practices often rely on pesticides, which impact biodiversity and public health, and intensive greenhouse cultivation that consumes significant energy. Furthermore, the global supply chain often results in flowers being transported from far distances. The movement toward organic flowers emphasizes seasonal and local availability to reconnect consumers with natural cycles.

Despite the ephemeral nature of cut flowers, experts note that the human connection to flowers is deeply rooted in history and ritual. The goal of the organic transition is to provide beauty without the ecological drawbacks associated with conventional mass-market cultivation.