ICA Sweden is taking a step towards a more sustainable flower industry by replacing traditional plastic trays for flowers with molded fiber trays from Stora Enso.
The transition to the molded fiber tray means a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions in the long term. By replacing a polystyrene tray with a wood fiber tray, CO₂ emissions are reduced by up to 81%.
As the first grocery chain in the country, ICA Sweden will shortly begin a transition of the flower tray to more environmentally friendly alternatives made of molded fiber. This change is part of ICA's efforts to reduce the use of plastic and promote more sustainable consumption.
"We are proud to be the first grocery retailer in Sweden to take a big step towards a more sustainable flower nutrition together with our talented growers and suppliers. The transition to wood fiber trays will be gradual and the first step will be several of our fine potted plants, followed by an ongoing conversion of our summer flowers," says Sandra Kjellin, Shop Floor Manager Flowers, ICA Sweden.
The molded fiber trays are manufactured in Sweden by Stora Enso and represent a groundbreaking innovation in the industry. Instead of conventional plastic trays, the flower tray is made from pressed wood fiber, making it completely free of plastic and PFAS. In addition, it is produced with 100% green electricity and consists of Nordic wood fiber from sustainable sources.
"We are thrilled to announce our partnership with ICA Sweden, leading the way in sustainability with our fiber-based flower trays. Each purchase not only blossoms with beauty but also nurtures our planet. Together, we're redefining eco-conscious solutions, one tray at a time." Says George Ribaeus Beri, Senior Business Development Manager at Stora Enso.
Part of the global bioeconomy, Stora Enso is a leading provider of renewable products in packaging, biomaterials and wooden construction, and one of the largest private forest owners in the world. We believe that everything that is made from fossil-based materials today can be made from a tree tomorrow. Stora Enso has approximately 20,000 employees and our sales in 2023 were EUR 9.4 billion. Stora Enso shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Oy (STEAV, STERV) and Nasdaq Stockholm AB (STE A, STE R). In addition, the shares are traded in the USA as ADRs and Ordinary Shares (SEOAY, SEOFF, SEOJF).
