Florverde Sustainable Flowers (FSF) has unveiled its updated Certification Standard, Version 8.0. This new version, which succeeds Version 7.1.3, incorporates more stringent and globally aligned requirements. It aims to reinforce FSF’s position as a leader in sustainable agricultural certification. The updated standard now includes key elements of international frameworks such as biodiversity protection, corporate due diligence, and enhanced social safeguards. This ensures that certified farms remain competitive and compliant in major markets, including the United States and the European Union.
Key Updates in Version 8.0
One of the most significant changes is the full alignment with policies like Walmart’s Pollinator Health Policy. This makes Florverde one of the few approved environmental standards for floral suppliers to the retail giant. These updates enhance FSF’s recognition and acceptance by environmentally conscious buyers worldwide.
The revised standard introduces expanded modules focusing on several critical areas:
Biodiversity and Pollinator Health: Emphasizes the protection of ecosystems and the health of pollinators.
Social Responsibility and Labor Rights: Highlights the importance of fair labor practices and social responsibility.
Environmental Performance and Climate Resilience: Addresses the need for sustainable practices and resilience to climate change.
These additions reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing ecological and societal challenges. They ensure that the standard promotes environmental sustainability while emphasizing humane and fair labor practices.
Effective Timeline and Transition Period
Version 8.0 was officially published on April 15, 2025, and will become mandatory as of April 15, 2026. During the transition period, certified farms can choose to be audited under either Version 7.1.3 or the new Version 8.0. This flexibility is designed to ease the transition for existing certified farms.
Support and Training
To facilitate the adoption of the new standard, FSF will offer free webinars and discounted training programs for auditors and in-house sustainability teams. The first public webinar, which will present the key updates, is scheduled for June 26, 2025, at 8:00 AM.
The updated auditor training program will cover a comprehensive range of topics to ensure thorough preparedness and competence. Participants will receive instruction on:
General Regulations: Providing essential knowledge of the legal and procedural frameworks governing auditing practices.
Internal Control Systems: Enabling auditors to assess and enhance the mechanisms that organizations use to safeguard assets, ensure financial accuracy, and achieve operational efficiency.
Social and Environmental Performance Criteria: Preparing auditors to evaluate how organizations manage their responsibilities toward social and environmental stewardship, aligning with modern standards of corporate accountability.
These components aim to enhance the skills and understanding of auditors, equipping them to provide insightful and impactful audit services.
