The Sustainability Initiative pilot program has begun, with an opening introduction and dinner last night in Amsterdam. There's a diverse group of participants from the U.S and Canada. We visit 24 companies / research sites this week, during which we will talk about sustainable practices of the present and future with an emphasis on greenhouse crop production. Everyone is encouraged to share their opinions and experiences this week and beyond -- chime in!
The Netherlands is the floriculture capitol of the world. Some interesting facts, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation:
- The Netherlands is the world's second largest exporter of agriculture products (the U.S. is the largest)
- 84% of the world's cut flowers are produced in and distributed through the Netherlands
- 83% of the total flower bulbs produced are from the Netherlands
- One out of 10 trucks in the Netherlands is carrying ornamentals
Amazing information! Our Park District orders nearly all their flowers for the parks from The Netherlands. I know all the bulbs come from there. I remember flying into Amsterdam in the early morning and seeing the glow from the greehouses through the clouds from pretty far overhead. It was exhilerating! It would be a beautiful place to live.
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