Grocery retailer ICA Sweden has announced a significant move towards sustainability in the flower industry by replacing traditional plastic trays with moulded fibre trays from Stora Enso. 

The retailer will use Stora's PureFiber Horti Trays to package fine potted plants, a move which is expected to cut carbon dioxide emissions (CO₂) by up to 81% in the long term.

The initiative aligns with ICA Sweden's commitment to reducing plastic use and fostering sustainable consumption practices. 

The retailer will commence the transition shortly, claiming to become the first grocery chain in Sweden to introduce wood fibre trays to its offering. 

ICA Sweden says that it will begin the transition shortly.  

ICA Sweden shop floor flower manager Sandra Kjellin said: "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 fibre 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."  

According to Stora Enso, these trays are made from pressed wood fibre, eliminating the need for plastic and per- and polyfluorinated substances.

The company manufactured them in Sweden using 100% green electricity and comprised Nordic wood fibre from sustainably managed forests. 

Enso senior business development manager George Ribaeus Beri said: "We are thrilled to announce our partnership with ICA Sweden, leading the way in sustainability with our fibre-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."  

In October last year, Enso partnered with Norwegian flower chain Mester Grønn to develop a new plastic-free transportation tray for Mester’s plants.