S05 - Session O2 - Keynote:Innovation and sustainability in South American floriculture

Authors: Marta Pizano *

Commercial floriculture is widely practiced in South America, with almost every country having at least some form of business development related to flowers or ornamental plants. Most interesting examples are Colombia and Ecuador standing out as well established, large, year-round exporters of cut flowers to a variety of countries around the world; floriculture in these countries is an important source of revenue and employment. Chile, which has developed impressive production and exports of bulbs, taking advantage of inverse seasons with respect to Europe. And Brazil, with a large domestic market, holds the only Dutch-style auction in South America, trading millions of cut flowers and ornamentals per year. Innovation and competitiveness are key factors in maintaining market share, whether at domestic or international levels, and these increasingly focus on sustainable production practices. This paper presents efforts and initiatives undertaken in various South American countries where floriculture is relevant, with a view of making a positive difference with minimum negative impact . It considers the production process, postharvest management and transport, as well as the distribution and marketing chains. Further, it discusses sustainability standards/ certifications developed and adopted in the region that are well recognized internationally, as well as challenges associated to the COVID-19 pandemic.