Floriculture conference: Experts call for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing soil carbon

At a recent international floriculture conference, experts highlighted the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing soil carbon to ensure sustainable growth of the horticulture sector. Scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders stressed that floriculture—often reliant on energy-intensive greenhouse systems—must adopt climate-smart practices to remain viable in the face of global warming.

Discussions focused on improving energy efficiency in greenhouses, adopting renewable energy sources, and optimizing resource use through advanced technologies such as automation and precision farming. Experts noted that modern greenhouse and vertical farming systems, while boosting productivity, also contribute to carbon emissions if not managed sustainably.

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A key theme of the conference was the importance of soil carbon sequestration. Researchers emphasized that increasing organic matter in soils can significantly reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide while improving soil fertility and water retention. Carbon farming practices—such as composting, reduced tillage, and cover cropping—were identified as effective strategies to both cut emissions and enhance resilience in floriculture systems.

Speakers also underlined the role of innovation, including data-driven precision agriculture and AI-based monitoring, in minimizing inputs like fertilizers and water, thereby lowering emissions. Integrating agroecological approaches with modern technology was seen as a promising pathway to balance productivity with environmental sustainability.

The conference concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between governments, researchers, and growers to accelerate the transition toward low-emission floriculture. Experts warned that without immediate action, climate change could disrupt flower production and global supply chains, making sustainability not just an option but a necessity for the industry’s future.

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