Gen Z and millennials are embracing sustainable alternatives to imported fresh flowers, with some even growing their own bouquets and picking wildflowers. Emily Day, a bride in Calgary, Canada, decided to grow her own flowers for her October wedding, challenging herself creatively and learning about the hidden climate costs of the global flower industry. Her homegrown arrangements, made from blooms like yarrow, feverfew, strawflowers, and statice, were just as beautiful as store-bought ones and cost a fraction of the price. This approach made her think more about the environmental costs behind imported blooms, from the plastic packaging to the fuel used to fly them across continents. As Generation Z and millennials prioritize sustainability in weddings and special events, some are growing their own bouquets, picking wildflowers, or using potted plants. Businesses are also sourcing flowers locally and collecting and repurposing flowers after events. The path of many imported fresh flowers to North America often begins in South America, involving a supply chain full of carbon emissions, according to Kai Chan, professor of sustainability science at the University of British Columbia. Flowers perish quickly when cut, requiring refrigeration and transport by planes, both of which consume energy and release planet-warming gases. Growing massive fields of roses or other single plants typically involves clearing trees and natural vegetation, a practice known as monoculture, which harms the environment by depleting soil nutrients and making the area more vulnerable to pests. Buying flowers from local, small-scale farmers is generally favorable because the blooms don't travel as far and the farmers typically follow practices attuned to the local environment. Holly Lukasiewicz, owner of District 2 Florals in Omaha, Nebraska, incorporates sustainable practices such as sourcing locally and avoiding non-biodegradable green foam blocks. She offers an extra fee for flower pickup and composting, as well as pressing and preserving flowers for clients. Neil Anderson, professor of horticulture at the University of Minnesota, notes that while some consumers prefer locally grown, sustainable products and are willing to pay a higher price, many still opt for the cheapest option available. Debra Prinzing, founder of the Slow Flowers Society, emphasizes that local and seasonal flowers can make an event more meaningful, as they tell a story of where they were grown. Esther Lee, editorial director at The Knot wedding planning website, observes that a significant number of couples prioritize sustainability in their wedding plans, hoping to personalize their event and give guests a sense of the region where the event is being held. However, artificial flowers are sometimes advertised as a sustainable alternative, but it's important to evaluate the data from manufacturers, as many are made of plastic and imported. Day, the bride who grew her own flowers, reused the dried flowers for her guests and a friend's ceremony, highlighting the reusability and compostability of dried flowers compared to plastic ones.
