6th March 2025 Bulletin Eco-Corner

We are now in the middle of the Omer, a period of reflection, prior to our next festival of Shavuot which falls on 1st June.  Shavuot is a time of learning, reflection, and rejoicing, and is often marked by studying the Torah, eating dairy foods, and decorating with flowers. 
 
Looking ahead to Shavuot (but also given that we often buy or give flowers to others on birthdays and special occasions) Eco Corner has some suggestions about buying flowers locally and ethically (and of course you can always find flowers in your own garden, if you have one).
 
There are several companies which operate more ethically and sustainably, who will send flowers through the post.  Arena Flowers (based in Droitwich) has a good reputation.  Bloom & Wild and Bunches are two other companies worth exploring.  When buying flowers, look also for Fairtrade status, or Floraverde certification, which requires growers to protect workers' rights and ensure good environmental practices. 
Look for British-grown and seasonal flowers. Flowers from the Farm  is a network of local growers that can help you find seasonal flowers in your area within the Three Counties, so look them up!
 
Like so many things the most environmental and ethical choice depends on many factors, but you can read more about this here at
https://www.theguardian.com/money/2022/mar/22/how-buy-flowers-beautifully-ethical-uk-carbon-plastic-delivery.