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lirios blancos

BEYOND THE SEAL AZAYA GARDENS - From regulatory compliance to a way of working

  • Marco Mejia
  • Jul 28
  • 3 min read

For Azaya Gardens, sustainability did not emerge solely as an external requirement, but as a process of internal transformation. Its journey began with Flor Ecuador certification in 2011, later joined by BASC, while the company moves toward new standards such as Flor Verde. 

One of the most significant changes was moving from work based solely on experience to a culture grounded in documented procedures and continuous improvement. This shift helped reduce errors, strengthen production processes, and ensure that every employee works under the same guidelines.  

Team safety also became a key priority. The use of personal protective equipment is no longer optional, but an integral part of operations, supported by ongoing training focused on environmental responsibility and worker well-being.  

In addition, the farm has fostered a sustainable culture that extends beyond its production facilities. Training on water and energy conservation and proper waste management has also involved employees' families, carrying good practices beyond the workplace.  

“Sustainability is not an obligation for our farm, it is our commitment.”  

Today, thanks to these programs, more than 73 families have benefited from training programs that, as a community, drive continuous improvement in sustainable practices. Through these practices, the farm achieved a 3% reduction in potable water consumption between 2024 and 2025, and a 4% increase in reused water during the same period.  

 

JOSARFLOR - A comprehensive approach to sustainability 

For Josarflor, sustainability means integrating technology, efficient processes, and human well-being within a single strategy. The farm holds certifications including BASC, Flor Ecuador, Flor Verde, and Carbono Neutro, consolidating a production model based on international standards and continuous improvement.  

Its journey began with BASC in 2010 and continued with the adoption of new standards, including Flor Verde in 2024. This process meant shifting from an operation based mainly on experience to a culture where every employee understands that quality, safety, and sustainability are shared responsibilities.  

One of the most representative projects has been the installation of a photovoltaic plant, an investment that reflects the company's commitment to reducing environmental impact through cleaner energy solutions. At the same time, the company has strengthened programs focused on creating safe work environments and fostering employees' sense of belonging.  

This combination of technological innovation and social commitment has become a key differentiator in markets that increasingly demand transparency, traceability, and responsibility across the entire production chain.  

“Sustainability is not a commercial requirement for our farm; it is part of our culture and our commitment to people, the environment, the safety of our processes, and future generations.”  

Today, we are proud to say that these efforts have paid off. We have exceeded the plant's projections: we have generated 52,020 kWh of renewable energy, and 156.2 tons of CO₂ have been avoided.  

Since the solar plant began operating in October 2023, the farm has reduced its carbon footprint through clean energy generation.  

 

FLORES VERDES: a responsible outlook that builds trust 

At Flores Verdes, we understand that the quality of our roses must go hand in hand with responsible management toward people, the environment, and our customers. For this reason, we maintain internationally recognized certifications that support our commitment to sustainability, safety, and continuous improvement. BASC, FairTrade, Flor Ecuador, Florverde Sustainable Flowers have driven us to make significant improvements in our processes, and that is what truly matters. 

We have strengthened physical and supply chain security. We have implemented occupational health and safety programs. The responsible use of agrochemicals and natural resources, along with efficient water and energy management, allows us to care for the environment, and above all, for our people. Our employees are our most valuable resource. That is why we continuously train our staff and develop well-being and social responsibility programs. 

Consumers and international buyers increasingly seek products from responsible and transparent companies. Today, markets demand real evidence of good agricultural practices, environmental protection, fair and safe working conditions, product traceability, and more. 

Certifications are a fundamental tool for demonstrating, in a verifiable way, that these requirements are met.  

Sustainability is no longer just an environmental responsibility; it has become a strategic advantage in the global flower market. 

Being a company that demonstrates the good practices behind its product builds greater customer trust, access to more demanding markets, a stronger corporate image and brand, a clear differentiator from competitors, and positive business results that drive efficiency and resource optimization. 

Being responsible allows us to focus on innovation. Flores Verdes is known for always staying ahead with a portfolio of more than 120 varieties. This is our commitment to our customers: offering them what's new in the market. But this is only possible through efficient work behind the scenes, requiring effective processes, motivated and well-cared-for staff, and responsible policies 

 
 
 

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