Sustainability is becoming an increasingly vital factor in the European home décor and garden industry.
Consumer values, buyer requirements, and the policies under the European Green Deal are all driving the gardening industry toward more responsible and eco-conscious practices — both for people and the planet.
The Future of Responsible Gardens
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The exhibition and book “Garden Futures: Designing with Nature” (2023) emphasize that if we consider the planet as one giant garden, then we are all gardeners — collectively responsible for caring for and using resources sustainably.
This idea was also central to the spoga+gafa 2024 trade fair under the theme “Responsible Gardens”, which explored how the gardening industry can protect the environment and inspire consumers to do the same.
How Consumers Can Contribute
Even though environmental challenges are vast, individuals can make meaningful changes — especially in Northern Europe, where 82% of people own a garden or balcony.
Simple yet impactful actions include:
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Installing bee hotels or birdhouses to protect pollinators.
→ In France, 80% of garden owners use these to boost biodiversity. -
Composting organic waste using worm bins or home compost systems to turn waste into fertilizer.
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Collecting rainwater and planting greenery instead of paved surfaces to support local ecosystems.
How the Gardening Industry Can Inspire Change
The industry is encouraging consumers to adopt small, sustainable habits with big results:
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Creating green spaces: replacing tiles with plants or permeable surfaces.
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Educating children: designing eco-friendly gardening kits for kids to grow vegetables and learn about nature.
Towards Sustainable Materials
The gardening sector is shifting from plastic to eco-friendly materials, such as:
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Recycled plastics from fishing nets and ropes.
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Natural materials like bamboo, coconut fiber, and coffee grounds.
Additionally, the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) promotes the use of non-wood sustainable materials. Other key sustainability initiatives include:
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Energy-efficient production.
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Minimalist or recycled packaging.
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Designing for repairability and reuse.
Advice for Vietnamese Exporters to the Nordic Market
The Nordic gardening market is transforming rapidly toward sustainability, offering vast opportunities for Vietnamese exporters — especially those leveraging natural materials and eco-friendly production. However, meeting the region’s strict quality and environmental standards requires careful preparation and strategy.
1. Leverage Vietnam’s Natural Resources
Vietnam has abundant sustainable materials such as bamboo, coconut fiber, and coffee grounds — highly valued in Northern Europe.
Suggestions:
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Develop plastic alternatives (e.g., bamboo pots, coconut rope, recycled wood tools).
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Use renewable energy and environmentally friendly production methods to strengthen competitiveness.
2. Focus on Biodiversity-Supporting Products
Nordic consumers value products that enhance biodiversity.
Suggestions:
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Manufacture bee hotels, birdhouses, and compost bins with modern, durable designs.
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Highlight each product’s natural origin story to build brand identity.
3. Emphasize Sustainable Packaging and Logistics
Minimalist and recyclable packaging is essential for Nordic buyers.
Suggestions:
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Use recycled paper or biodegradable plastics.
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Optimize packaging design to reduce transport costs and carbon emissions.
4. Strengthen Traceability and Transparency
Traceability is a key factor in the Nordic market’s purchasing decisions.
Suggestions:
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Implement supply chain tracking systems for full product transparency.
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Obtain sustainability certifications such as FSC, Rainforest Alliance, or GlobalG.A.P. to build credibility.
5. Establish Distribution Networks in the Nordic Region
Having local partnerships significantly enhances market access.
Suggestions:
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Participate in major garden fairs such as spoga+gafa to showcase products and meet buyers.
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Collaborate with trusted Nordic importers and distributors to expand market presence.
Conclusion
The Nordic gardening industry presents great potential for Vietnamese exporters offering sustainable, nature-based products.
By investing in quality, transparency, and eco-friendly innovation, Vietnamese businesses can not only meet strict market demands but also build a long-term competitive position in this forward-thinking region.