Sustainability

Floraliën blossoms from a green and flourishing sector. Inspired by sustainable practices within the horticultural sector, our festival brings together nature, the floral sector and experience. We raise awareness among our audience in an accessible way about the positive effect of greenery on well-being and quality of life, both literally with flowers and plants, and figuratively in our artistic programme.

With this vision, it goes without saying that we as a festival take care of our environment. We strive for a minimal ecological footprint and a maximum floral experience.

Sustainability as a core value

Sustainability is in Floraliën's DNA. Our approach to sustainability is based on a number of pillars:

• A sustainable team operating under the slogan ‘Everyone aware and everyone sustainable’.
• Collaboration with partners and suppliers who share our sustainable values.
• Promoting knowledge sharing and developing innovative solutions.

Conscious choices in catering

Our catering choices are conscious and sustainable:

• Local and seasonal ingredients: We choose seasonal, local, vegetarian, and sustainable options.
• Social responsibility: We ask our caterers to pay attention to the employment and training of people from disadvantaged groups.
• Reducing food waste: Through contacts with regional collectors of food surpluses, we combat food waste

Circular policy

Floraliën operates according to a circular principle, with a strong focus on reuse and waste reduction:

• Recycling and composting: We sort waste and promote the reuse of materials.
• Zero-waste policy: Our participants receive our circular vision in the toolbox.
• Innovative collaborations: For example, using peat-free potting soil to limit environmental damage..

Strengthening the ecosystem

Diversity is central to our programme, which contributes to a sustainable ecosystem. After the festival, flowers and plants are given a second life. The proceeds from this go to projects that strengthen the connection between people and nature.

Promoting psychosocial well-being

Floraliën brings people together:

• Our volunteers form a diverse and enthusiastic crew. Interested in joining our crew? Let us know via this form.
• Accessibility is a priority; together with the authorities, we ensure that all locations are accessible.
• Collaborations with organisations such as Demos (Vrijuit) and UiTPAS keep our events accessible.

By focusing on the positive effects of greenery, we contribute to a more sustainable living environment. Think of a better quality of life, better air quality, more biodiversity and less heat stress – all benefits that promote both our planet and our well-being.

Sustainable mobility policy

Floraliën Ghent takes place in the green heart of the city, within walking distance of the station and public transport hubs.

• Carpoolplatform: Through Slinger, we connect visitors to travel together.
• Encouraging bicycle use: Visitors are provided with tools to reach Floraliën via the East Flemish cycle junctions.
• Local focus: We consciously choose local growers and artists to limit transport emissions.

With our commitment to sustainability, we want to support a green future and create a lasting impact – for nature, for the city and for the community.