Sobering news for an otherwise festive holiday: The majority of cut roses sold in the U. S. were grown in Columbia, using harsh pesticides, according to the Associated Press. Industry workers, many of whom are single mothers, labor under often unsafe levels of chemicals, and many have become sick as a result. The AP also notes “the Harvard School of Public Health examined 72 children ages 7-8 in a flower-growing region of Ecuador whose mothers were exposed to pesticides during pregnancy and found they had developmental delays of up to four years on aptitude tests.”
One organization, Florverde, is certifying members that adhere to rules for worker safety, but progress is slow. The Veriflora certification, launched in the U. S., certifies organic farms, including some in Columbia.
Something to consider as you buy your Valentine’s gifts this week. I’ve always said chocolate is a better choice anyway.
better make that fair trade chocolate.
happy v day.