Showcasing sustainable leadership in the Colombian floriculture industry

During the last General Assembly of Asocolflores, held on April 10, the Lucie de Vélez Sustainability and Shared Value Awards were presented, recognizing the most outstanding initiatives in environmental management, socio-labor practices and community engagement across the industry.

More than a recognition, the awards have become a platform to highlight best practices, promote knowledge exchange and reinforce the collective commitment of Colombian floriculture to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In an increasingly demanding global environment, where climate action, social inclusion and responsible production are key, these initiatives demonstrate how an export-oriented industry can integrate sustainability into its core business model.

© Asocolflores

“Sustainability is a strategic pillar of floriculture and one of the key drivers of its international positioning. We protect natural resources, promote economic development and generate social impact in the communities where we operate. Formal employment translates into well-being, equity and opportunity, especially for women heads of household, who are the foundation of our industry,” said Laura Valdivieso, president of the Association of Colombian Flower Exporters, Asocolflores.

The importance of these efforts was also highlighted by Sergio Díaz-Granados, Executive President of CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, who emphasized that sustainability in floriculture contributes not only to environmental protection, but also to long-term resilience, stable employment and solutions that benefit both the country and the planet.

In the Environmental Management category, Flores El Capiro S.A. was recognized for its project “Precision Agriculture for a Sustainable Future,” which integrates advanced technologies to optimize resource use, improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact in chrysanthemum production. (See initiative here)

© AsocolfloresThe Flores El Capiro team with their award

In the Socio-Labor Management category, Ayurá S.A.S. received the award for “Decent Housing – Happy Family,” a program focused on improving employees’ quality of life through access to housing solutions, contributing to family well-being and social development. (See initiative here)

© AsocolfloresAyurá accept their award

In the Community Engagement category, MG Consultores S.A.S. was recognized for “Campus Day: Connecting Youth with Floriculture as a Life Project,” an initiative that brings high school students closer to the industry, helping them develop skills and envision floriculture as a viable and dignified career path. (See initiative here)

© AsocolfloresThe MG Consultores team pose with their award

Beyond individual achievements, these initiatives reflect a broader sectoral vision: one in which sustainability is not a complementary effort, but a core element of competitiveness and international positioning. Colombian floriculture, present in more than 100 countries, continues to demonstrate that global trade can be a vehicle for social development, environmental stewardship and shared value creation.

Through recognitions such as the Lucie de Vélez Awards, the industry reaffirms its commitment to continue strengthening a model in which exporting flowers also means exporting knowledge, innovation and best practices that contribute to the sustainable development of the global horticulture industry.