SAN FRANCISCO - Following is an advisory for a symposium on the organic floral industry to take place June 3 in San Francisco.

WHAT:

An international panel of experts -- including growers, environmental scientists, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, certification and trade association leaders -- will present new standards and address the environmental and socially responsible aspects of flower growing and marketing.

WHO:

A private event for: journalists, international dignitaries, and environmental and floral industry experts.

WHY:

Sustainably grown flowers are already influencing the $16 billion U.S. floral industry. In the U.S. alone, the newly emerging organic floral market reached $8 million in 2003, growing 52 percent over the previous year. Sales are expected to grow 13 percent annually through 2008, according to the Organic Trade Association.

Natural product shoppers today are making purchasing decisions based on concerns about personal health, social justice and environmental sustainability. Industrialized growing practices have led to environmental and labor concerns raised by scientists, environmentalists and the public. With booming sales and concerned customers, flower retailers and consumers are seeking assurances regarding sustainable farming methods, and good social practices relating to the production and handling of fresh cut flowers.

DATE:

Friday, June 3

TIME:

2 p.m. - 5 p.m.

WHERE:

Ferry Building Marketplace, San Francisco

Refreshments served

SPONSOR:

Presented by Organic Bouquet Inc., the world's first online organic florist, in conjunction with United Nations World Environment Day 2005. Established in 2001, Organic Bouquet's mission is to set a new standard for the floral industry that upholds the well being of farm workers, the protection of ecosystems, and the preservation of the Earth. See www.OrganicBouquet.com. For details regarding World Environment Day 2005, please visit www.wed2005.org.

INFO AND RSVP:
Michael Straus,
Straus Communications,
+1-415-777-1170, +1-415-519-8343,
Michael@StrausCom.com

Organic Style

Organic Style

Organic Style Ltd. (www.OrganicStyle.com) is an online eco-boutique for people seeking inspiring products that uphold the well-being of the planet and humankind. Their flagship brand, Organic Bouquet (OrganicBouquet.com) is widely recognized as America’s pioneer of organic and eco-flowers. EcoFlowers.com (www.EcoFlowers.com) is their wholesale division, with customers including florists, retailers, hotels and wedding planners.

More from Organic Style