Preserving heritage through ethical sourcing of Bulgarian rose oil
Recently certified by Preferred by Nature against the Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT) standard, BG Oils has solidified its role as a key player in Bulgaria’s iconic rose oil industry. This sector not only represents national pride but also significantly contributes to the global fragrance, cosmetics and pharmaceutical markets.
Bulgaria has long been a global leader in rose oil production, contributing around 70% of the world’s supply. The Valley of Roses, with its unique climate and soil composition, offers ideal conditions for cultivating the Rosa damascena – commonly known as the Damask rose – a process deeply rooted in Bulgarian culture since the 17th century.
Rose oil is highly valued in fragrances, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals for its exquisite scent and therapeutic properties. Yet, producing this “liquid gold” is an intensive process: over 3,500 kilograms of rose petals are required to yield a single kilogram of oil. Harvesting must be done carefully – the petals are hand-picked early in the morning to preserve their delicate aromatic compounds. The freshly picked rose petals undergo gentle steam distillation, a process that releases the oil, which is then cooled and separated from the water.
For local communities, rose oil cultivation represents a livelihood as well as a generational legacy. BG Oils, which owns 38.55 hectares of rose fields located in the buffer zones of the Central Balkan National Park in Bulgaria, is committed to maintaining these traditions while addressing modern challenges.
Understanding UEBT certification
The UEBT standard promotes ethical sourcing, biodiversity conservation and socio-economic responsibility. It provides a framework of good practices for the sourcing of natural ingredients, particularly relevant for the fragrance, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, where consumer demand for sustainably produced products is growing. Companies seeking UEBT certification must meet rigorous requirements to prove that their sourcing practices respect biodiversity and people.
“The UEBT Code of Conduct strongly aligns with our own way of doing business. We believe the rose oil industry is shifting more toward sustainable practices, traceability and responsible sourcing. While maintaining our current sustainability practices, we are also taking steps for future improvements to progress with the UEBT certification.”
Plamena Georgieva
Representative of BG Oils
Following Preferred by Nature’s audit of its farms and production sites, BG Oils’ Internal Monitoring System was certified as compliant with the UEBT standard, specifically the UEBT ingredient certification requirements. This process also involves a Biodiversity Action Plan, which BG Oils developed with the support of UEBT experts. The Biodiversity Action Plan is a critical component of the UEBT framework. It serves as a strategic tool for companies to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing practices in relation to biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources.
The audit assesses every stage of the process – from field cultivation to final production – to ensure that the operations benefit both ecosystems and the local communities. UEBT certification is more than a compliance milestone for BG Oils; it validates the company’s ongoing efforts to embrace both cultural tradition and ethical sourcing.
As a member of UEBT, BG Oils actively participates in networking with like-minded organisations, sharing best practices and collaborating with other companies, NGOs and stakeholders focused on biodiversity and ethical trade. UEBT also provides practical tools, resources and knowledge-sharing initiatives to support companies improve their practices and meet the growing demand for sustainable products.
Advancing cultivation practices
To reduce its environmental impact, BG Oils enforces strict controls on agrochemical use, based on the UEBT List of Prohibited Agrochemicals, and adopts efficient water management systems. On larger farms, precision agriculture technologies, such as GPS-guided tractors, are used to minimise disruption to surrounding ecosystems.
BG Oils also works with local organic beekeepers to place beehives strategically within its fields to enhance pollination and promote ecological health, while increasing yields. Solar-powered irrigation systems and photovoltaic panels have also been installed at production sites to lower carbon emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
Meanwhile, by-products from rose distillation, such as petals and stems, are repurposed into biofuels or compost to reduce waste. Laboratory tests have provided data showing high nutritional results from this compost, which BG Oils uses as a substitute for artificial fertilisers.
Fostering community wellbeing
UEBT certification goes beyond environmental concerns to address social equity. BG Oils ensures fair wages, transparent contracts and safe working conditions for its seasonal workers, many of whom are women and minority groups involved in flower collection.
To build long-term resilience, the company partners with local organisations to offer skills training and economic opportunities. This strengthens BG Oils’ supply chain while uplifting the communities at the heart of its operations. BG Oils also works closely with its network of suppliers to help them understand and adhere to the UEBT guidelines, particularly regarding the use of prohibited agrochemicals and environmental protection.
“By following these guidelines and with proper care, our rose fields can remain productive for 15 years or more,” stated Plamena.
Achieving UEBT certification has propelled BG Oils to adapt and innovate to modern challenges. For instance, the company has expanded its rose fields to safeguard supply against the impacts of climate change, while using meteorological data to optimise planting and harvesting cycles. BG Oils also conducts random soil analysis across its suppliers’ fields to ensure the long-term health of its rose crops. Many smaller, family-operated suppliers continue to rely on traditional hand tools instead of tractors for minimal environmental disruption.
A model for the rose oil industry
The Bulgarian rose oil industry is at a pivotal point, facing pressures from climate change, market demands for transparency and evolving consumer expectations. BG Oils’ UEBT certification provides a compelling example of how traditional industries can navigate these challenges responsibly while preserving their cultural heritage for generations to come.
Photos by Neli Petkova / Preferred by Nature
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