Organic Certified

Organic refers to a sustainable system of agriculture popularized in the U.S. by farmer and publisher J. I. Rodale in 1946. Organic farming seeks to work with nature, not against it, by utilizing agricultural techniques that build soil fertility and protect the surrounding air, water and wildlife. It emphasizes building healthy, rich soil to produce plants that are high in nutritional value and resistant to pests and diseases.

Certified by Scientific Certification Systems (SCS), a USDA accredited agency that verifies our growers adhere to the standards prescribed by the National Organic Program (NOP). The SCS Certification Program is designed to certify every step of the organic chain: from the land on which the product is grown; to the producers growing the product; to the post-harvest facilities preparing the product; to the processing and handling facilities transforming the product. This includes the use of sustainable farming techniques that rely on natural systems of production, pest management, and weed and fungal control, such as: cover cropping, composting, beneficial insect release, crop rotation, and prohibited use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It also prohibits the use of toxic and persistent chemicals commonly found in industrial pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. The purpose of organic agriculture is to enrich the soil, minimize damage to ecosystems, conserve biodiversity, and maintain environmental quality.

What are the standards of Organic Certified USDA?

• sustainable farming techniques
• prohibits the use of toxic and persistent chemicals
• ecosystem protection
• conserve biodiversity
• maintain environmental quality

 

For more information, please visit http://www.scscertified.com and http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop/indexIE.htm.

< Back

---

VeriFlora®

VeriFlora® is America’s first comprehensive sustainability certification program for the floral and potted plant industries. The VeriFlora® "Certified Sustainably Grown" label is your guarantee that flowers and potted plants have been produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner and meet the highest standards for freshness and quality. When you choose a VeriFlora® product, you are contributing to a global movement to encourage companies to become sustainable. Already, this has resulted in significant and positive change for farmers, farm workers, and the environment.

The VeriFlora® certification program establishes procedures for verifying agricultural production and handling practices, from soil preparation and seed planting through production, harvest, and post-harvest distribution. The program is administered by Scientific Certification Systems(SCS), a leader in third party certification services and standards development. To be certified, growers and handlers must meet rigorous performance criteria in the following key areas:

• Sustainable Crop Production – Controlling pests and diseases with the least environmental impact; building soil fertility and health to support the ecosystem, prevent erosion, and capture and store carbon from the atmosphere; phasing in organic practices over time.

• Ecosystem Protection – Protecting ecosystems in and around the farm, including streams, rivers, riparian zones, wetlands areas, habitats and species with recognized high ecological value, and other biologically and culturally significant areas.

• Resource Conservation and Energy Efficiency – Conserving precious natural resources through careful water use and quality control practices, energy saving initiatives, greenhouse gas emission reduction efforts, and product packaging minimization.

• Integrated Waste Management – Providing safe storage and proper handling and disposal of farm chemicals, and encouraging composting or recycling of agricultural and non-agricultural wastes.

• Fair Labor Practices – Ensuring a safe, equitable and healthy work environment, and providing access to key services as needed.

• Community Benefits – Supporting local communities through preferential purchasing, hiring, infrastructure improvements, and collaborative problem-solving.

• Product Quality – Implementing quality assurance and product tracking procedures to ensure that sustainably grown products are properly handled from the time they leave the farm until they reach the consumer, for maximum freshness and longevity.

< Back

---

Biodynamic

Biodynamics is the oldest sustainable system of agriculture practiced in the western world today, started by German philosopher Rudolph Steiner in 1924. The Biodynamic Method was later refined in the United States by Dr. Pfeiffer. In the late 1960's and early 70's, Alan Chadwick further developed the method into the Biodynamic French Intensive method of horticulture. Chadwick established a research facility and demonstration farm and garden at the University of California at Santa Cruz, which is now known as the Agroecology Program.

Biodynamics views the farm as a self-sustaining organism within the surrounding ecosystem. It emphasizes animals as being part of the farm ecosystem, and it takes into account the soil, earth, atmosphere, and cosmos. Biodynamics does not employ pesticides, herbicides or synthetic fertilizers. Instead, it relies on manure, crop rotations, biological pest control, and cosmic forces to put life back into soils and into the ecology of the farm. Biodynamic farming supplements organic methods with astronomy, and with homeopathic-like preparations and sprays produced on the farm to enhance and regulate plant growth, compost production, and soil fertility. Utilizing the Stella Natura Biodynamic agricultural calendar, Biodynamic farmers consider the positioning of the sun and the moon, and other "cosmic rhythms," as guides for when to prune, plant, or dig.

What are the standards of Boidynamic?

• prohibits the use of pesticides, herbicides or synthetic fertilizers
• organic methods with astronomy
• emphasizes humane animal practices
• ecosystem protection

The Demeter Association certifies our products that are labeled Biodynamic. For more information, please visit www.demeter-usa.org.

< Back

---

Fair Trade Certified™

Fair Trade Certified™ is a growing, international movement which ensures that producers in poor countries get a fair deal. This means a fair price for their goods (one that covers the cost of production and guarantees a living income), long-term contracts which provide real security; and for many, support to gain the knowledge and skills that they need to develop their businesses and increase sales. (Oxfam: Make Trade Fair)

History
The fair trade movement originated in Europe over 40 years ago with a mission to create sustainable incomes for poor and disadvantaged producers by:

• providing a living wage
• maintaining stable, long-term trade agreements and by
• improving working conditions through education, campaigning and creating access to outside markets.

Today the majority of these producers are workers in Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. Unfortunately free trade agreements, such as NAFTA, APEC and WTO, have created industrial opportunities in these developing regions but ignored actions to protect workers or the environment. For example, in India millions have been employed as piece-work garment workers for below minimum wage; this is accepted since the market for their traditional crafts has been all but eliminated.

Additionally, the market for fair trade has enjoyed great success in Europe, where fair trade goods are available in over 2,700 world stores and 43,000 supermarkets. There are four multi-national fair trade organizations that work together to help spread and advocate the fair trade movement: IFAT, EFTA, NEWS! and FLO International. In 2001, the European Fair Trade Association surveyed 18 countries and found that they work with over 100 importing organizations with the four largest having annual turnover of over €10 million a year ($12.3 million), while the total net retail value is estimated to be over €92 million a year (European Fair Trade Association).

This trend is making its way over to the US slowly but surely. American consumers are increasingly concerned about the origin and the environmental and social footprint of their purchases. This “Fair Trade” movement is growing similar to the Organic industry, which began as a fringe movement but is now a global industry worth $23B (2002, Organic Monitor). In 2000, fair trade sales in North America totaled $100 million. This figure almost doubled to $180m within two years, with the majority of revenues from agricultural products: coffee, tea chocolate and fruit. The fair trade handicrafts market generated revenues of $13.8m in 2002. It would not be surprising if this trend, which has come to the US slowly and steadily, grows exponentially in the future as a result of education and awareness.

< Back

---

Transitional

We support growers who are adopting organic farming practices, have the intention of completing organic certification and who are currently under the oversight of a USDA accredited organic certification agency but are within the 3 year required process to reach certification status. Although there is no assurance the growers will achieve organic status, we believe it is important to support growers who are dedicated to the process and have made the commitment to transition their farms to organic practices.

< Back

---

Eco-Friendly

Products that are labeled "eco-friendly" are not certified by an official government or independent standard but are deemed sustainable based on one or more of the following practices:

1. the use of materials which are recycled, recyclable, tree-free, biodegradable, compostable, post-consumer, wild crafted, all-natural, and/or printed with vegetable-based inks
2. manufactured or transported using carbon offsets, renewable or efficient energy, and/or little to no toxic chemicals
3. produced using organic farming practices but are not certified under the USDA National Organic Program
4. a portion of the sale proceeds are donated to non-profit organizations dedicated to wildlife & land conservation, ecological restoration, and environmental protection

< Back

---

Socially Responsible

Products that are labeled “socially responsible” are not certified by an official government or independent standard but are deemed worthy based on one or more of the following practices: a) sourced from farmers and artisans who re-invest in the infrastructure of their local communities through education, healthcare, and/or economic development projects; b) sourced from farmers and artisans who are employed by companies that provide safe and just working conditions, a livable wage, and adequate health and education benefits; c) a portion of the sale proceeds are donated to non-profit organizations dedicated to social justice, human rights, welfare, and animal rights; d) produced without animal testing or cruelty and are either vegetarian or vegan.

< Back

---

Made with Organic Ingredients

Products that contain at least 70 percent organic ingredients can use the phrase "made with organic ingredients" according to the USDA National Organic Program. Organic refers to a sustainable system of agriculture popularized in the U.S. by farmer and publisher J. I. Rodale in 1946. Organic farming seeks to work with nature, not against it, by utilizing agricultural techniques that build soil fertility and protect the surrounding air, water and wildlife. It emphasizes building healthy, rich soil to produce plants that are high in nutritional value and resistant to pests and diseases.

For more information, please visit www.ams.usda.gov/nop/indexIE.htm.

< Back

---

Global Organic Textile

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certification defines requirements to ensure organic status of textiles, from harvesting of the raw materials, through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to labeling in order to provide a credible assurance to the end consumer. This standard for organic textiles covers the production, processing, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, exportation, importation and distribution of all natural fibers. The final products may include, but are not limited to fiber products, yarns, fabrics and clothes.

GOTS is certified by Control Union Certifications, which has been assigned by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality as inspection body for the organic production. Control Union Certifications performs this task by means of inspection finally leading towards certification. Control Union Certifications also informs the organic farmers and processors about the legislation concerned. The rules for organic production in the Netherlands are based on the EU-regulation (EEC) nr. 2092/91.

What are the standards of Global Organic Textile Certification?

• sustainable farming techniques
• prohibits the use of toxic and persistent chemicals
• ecosystem protection
• conserve biodiversity
• maintain environmental quality

For more information, please visit Control Union World Group.

< Back

---

Swiss Certified

For more information, please visit: www.organic-europe.net

< Back

---

Bay Area Green Business Program

The Bay Area Green Business Program verifies that businesses meet higher standards of environmental performance. Our partnership of government agencies and utilities helps local businesses comply with all environmental regulations and take actions to conserve resources, prevent pollution, and minimize waste. We offer motivated businesses and agencies an easy-to-use framework for improving environmental performance. Over 1,600 businesses and public agencies have been certified since 1997.

The Program was developed by Bay Area local governments in collaboration with US EPA, Cal EPA Department of Toxic Substances Control and the business community. The Association of Bay Area Governments coordinates the Program, which is implemented by Green Business Coordinators in 9 participating counties. The regional and local programs are funded by their partners, including local and regional government agencies, utilities, special districts and nonprofit organizations that promote environmental compliance, pollution prevention and resource conservation. Some funding also comes from government and non-profit foundation grants.

What are the standards of Bay Area Green Business Program?

• regulatory compliance
• pollution prevention
• waste reduction
• energy and water conservation

< Back

---

FlorVerde®

FlorVerde's® most compelling aspect is its focus on the health and welfare of the Colombian worker. FlorVerde®'s stringent workplace standards are designed to improve the lives of Colombian workers by providing social systems to support workers and their families, fostering a system that facilitates personal and professional growth and opportunity, and by creating and maintaining a safe work environment. The environmental standards and care and handling measures defined by FlorVerde® represent safe, sustainable floriculture and yield an abundant supply of beautiful flowers that are available throughout the year.

Workplace Standards Despite the fact the Colombian law permits youth to work at the age of sixteen, workers must be at least 18 years old to work on a FlorVerde®-certified farm. This regulation is strictly enforced through routine audits. Certified farms provide comprehensive education and training for all workers to ensure a safe and productive workplace. At 46.5 hours per week, the average work week is less than the 48-hour Colombian standard. In addition, FlorVerde® certification requires employees to spend a minimum of two hours per week on cultural activities to strengthen the community infrastructure. These jobs are highly sought after, in part because the compensation tends to be higher than minimum standards set by law.

Participating farms provide a number of on-site benefits and social programs to enhance the quality of their workers' family lives. These include day care facilities, schools and facilities such as canteens, toilets, changing rooms and washing units. They also include on-site medical support, counseling services, family mediation, programs aimed at building and maintaining peace in Colombia and partnerships to facilitate housing purchases by employees.

Workplace Safety FlorVerde® certification requires comprehensive workplace training for all those that work on the farm. Comprehensive training and a detailed procedural manual are provided to each participating farm. Training includes a detailed review of specific steps to safeguard workers in all farming practices including use of machinery, application of government-approved agricultural compounds, equipment instructions, harvesting processes and transportation.

Floriculture Quality Standards Flowers from FlorVerde® certified farms are distinguished from others by growers' commitment to product quality. The FlorVerde® floriculture standards provide environmental protection by minimizing the impact of production through the application of good agricultural practices. In addition, in order to maintain accountability among growers, a new system has been implemented that allows for certified flowers to be traced from their originating farm through the distribution chain via a tracking system. The FlorVerde® standards for care and handling ensure the highest product quality from harvest all the way through the distribution chain. These standards are enforced beginning at the farm where flowers are cultivated in a manner that will yield beautiful blooms within a safe working environment. Post-harvest, additional measures are in place to keep flowers at appropriate cold temperatures in transit to extend shelf life.

FlorVerde® Standard FlorVerde® requires compliance with all compulsory standards (levels 1-3) and codes of conduct including operational and social guidelines before a farm can be certified.

FlorVerde® Certification Organization FlorVerde® farms are certified by SGS, a renowned international audit company based in Switzerland. SGS is the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company, widely recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 46,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1,000 offices and laboratories around the world in support of some of the world's largest and most visible consumer brands.

< Back

---

Ecocert®

Ecocert® defines it's core business as guaranteeing strict compliance with specifications for products, systems or services. The issuance of the certificate is a guarantee of safety for the consumer or user. In farming, for example, this implies the ability to support, by qualified personnel, a network of close and special tools, a large number of players in the organic sector, to ensure compliance and traceability in relation to European benchmarks , American or Japanese, according to the recipient.

What are the standards of Ecocert®?

• no pre-treatment used in any of the raw materials found in organic formulas
• all suppliers must pass an extensive review before their raw materials are approved.
• all manufacturing and packaging facilities undergo a rigorous inspection
• all packaging must be recyclable.

For more information, please visit http://www.ecocert.com.

< Back

---

Fair Trade® Certified

FLO-CERT is an independent International certification company offering Fair Trade® Certification services to clients in more than 70 countries.

Certified Fair Trade® is a product certification system where social, economic and environmental aspects of production are certified against Fair Trade® standards for producers and buying and selling is certified against Fair Trade® standards for trade.

Our system monitors the buying and the selling of the product until it is consumer packaged and labelled. Certificates are only issued after a physical inspection has confirmed that all relevant Fair Trade® standards are complied with.

What are the standards of Fair Trade® certified by FLO-CERT?

• guarantee a minimum price considered as fair to producers
• producer must invest in projects enhancing its social, economic and environmental development
• strive for mutually beneficial long term trading relationships
• producer must allow for long-term planning and sustainable production practices

For more information, please visit http://www.flo-cert.com.

< Back

---

Rainforest Alliance

Rainforest Alliance certification is a comprehensive process that promotes and guarantees improvements in agriculture and forestry. Our independent seal of approval ensures that goods and services were produced in compliance with strict guidelines protecting the environment, wildlife, workers and local communities.

Rainforest Alliance Certified farms have reduced environmental footprints, are good neighbors to human and wild communities and are often integral parts of regional conservation initiatives. Under the auspices of the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN), an international coalition of leading conservation groups, the Rainforest Alliance works with farmers to ensure compliance with the SAN standards for protecting wildlife, wild lands, workers’ rights and local communities. Farms that meet these rigorous standards are awarded the Rainforest Alliance Certified seal.

What are the standards of Rainforest Alliance?

• less water pollution
• less soil erosion
• reduced threats to the environment and human health
• wildlife habitat is protected
• less waste and water
• more efficient farm management
• improved conditions for farm workers
• improved profitablility and competitiveness for farmers
• more collaboration between farmers and conservationists

For more information, please visit http://www.rainforest-alliance.org.>

< Back

---

Fair Labor Practices

Fair Labor Practices & Community Benefits Certified™ underlines the importance of conducting operations in a manner that supports the needs of workers, their families and communities.

The label includes provisions for equitable hiring and employment practices, safe workplace conditions, workers right to organize, worker housing, child labor, access to health, education, and transportation services, impacts to the community, local hiring, purchasing, and contributions, and economic stability. This comprehensive certification provides a consistent, transparent set of requirements that directly benefit workers, their families and communities.

What are the standards of Fair Labor Practices & Community Benefits Certified™?

• equitable hiring and employment practices
• safe workplace conditions
• access to health, education and transportation services
• addressing local community impacts
• community engagement
• economic stability

For more information, please visit http://www.scscertified.com.

< Back

---

FlorEcuador® Certification

FlorEcuador® is a socio-environmental certification controlled by Expoflores, the association of producers and exporters in Ecuador. This program aims to achieve and demonstrate the commitment to social and environmental responsibility..

What are the standards of Flor Ecuador®?

• environmental protection
• sustainable agricultural practices
• improves labor conditions
• prohibits use of toxic pesticides

For more information, please visit ExpoFlores.

< Back

---

EcoBlooms

Floral items listed as EcoBlooms may have one or more of the following certifications:

Veriflora Certified

Fair Trade Certified
Transitional
Florverde
EcoCert
Rain Forest Alliance
Fair Labor Practices
FlorEcuador