And so it seems, the end of the year is here and with it comes a time of reflection. A time to look at all that happened (and didn’t happen) this year and to reflect on the choices made and how they will influence the time ahead for our young company and our valued customers.
We launched our new website and strengthened communication channels between us and our customers. And most importantly, we expanded the time dedicated to direct customer communications in order to 1. Listen 2. Adapt accordingly, and 3. Respond with Action.
We introduced a new Distributor in the UK, Evolve Flowers, and saw the immediate results of their educated approach to spreading awareness of options.
We collaborated with many educators and organizations to support the good work they are doing on behalf of the sustainable floristry movement.
We conducted a self audit of our operations and fulfillment and made changes to our packaging process by reducing and improving labeling procedures, resulting in savings in both Time and Materials, all while benefiting the environment.
We specifically held back release of the OSHUN Pouch Sympathy format until confirmation of TÜV Austria HOME Compostability Certification was received, reinforcing our commitment to transparency and to our no greenwashing policy.
And finally, we expanded our company strategically, reinvesting our resources in our future growth directives and product development.
We roared!
And we have so much up our sleeves for 2025 that we will look back this time next year and be grateful for the support of all of you in helping shift the mindset from consumerism to the protection of the source of it all via sustainable and regenerative floristry practices.
Giving Back
As we close another impactful year, filled with progress and collaboration, it’s time to focus on what truly matters. In the spirit of giving, consider honoring your loved ones by contributing to causes that support sustainability and conservation. Such contributions not only celebrate the season but also support initiatives that protect our planet for future generations. Here are ten noteworthy organizations to consider:
- Sustainable Floristry Network (SFN)
- Mission: SFN is an independent education organization for florists, creating a new standard for floristry based on sustainability principles.
- Website: sustainablefloristry.org
- The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
- Mission: TNC works globally to conserve lands and waters, aiming to create a world where people and nature thrive.
- Website: nature.org
- Environmental Defense Fund (EDF)
- Mission: EDF addresses environmental issues through science, economics, and law, focusing on climate, oceans, ecosystems, and health.
- Website: edf.org
- Sierra Club Foundation
- Mission: The foundation promotes efforts to educate and empower people to protect and improve the natural and human environment.
- Website: sierraclubfoundation.org
- Greenpeace
- Mission: Greenpeace is a global network that uses peaceful protest and creative confrontation to expose environmental problems and promote solutions.
- Website: greenpeace.org/usa/
- Plant With Purpose
- Mission: This organization focuses on environmental sustainability, reforestation, and poverty alleviation by empowering rural communities.
- Website: plantwithpurpose.org
- EcoLogic Development Fund
- Mission: EcoLogic empowers rural and indigenous people to restore and protect tropical ecosystems in Central America and Mexico.
- Website: ecologic.org
- Atmosfair
- Mission: Atmosfair offers carbon offsetting for greenhouse gases emitted by various activities, funding renewable energy projects in developing countries.
- Website: atmosfair.de/en/
- Conservation International
- Mission: This organization works to protect the most fundamental things that nature provides: food, fresh water, livelihoods, and a stable climate.
- Website: conservation.org
- Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
- Mission: NRDC works to safeguard the earth—its people, plants, animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends.
- Website: nrdc.org
By donating to these organizations in the name of someone special, you offer a meaningful gift that contributes to the well-being of our planet.
May this Holiday Season find you with good health and much happiness!
Kirsten VanDijk and the New Age Floral Team