Sustainable Garden Products & CBAM 2026: What Matters Now

“Sustainability is no longer an option – it is the new norm.”I first heard this line in a conversation with one of our European trading partners. And honestly: they were right.

With climate change, rising CO₂ levies and the impending CBAM regulation from 2026, our sector faces real challenges. But as someone who’s been manufacturing garden products for over 20 years, I see not only the risks — but above all the opportunities.

CBAM: The Green Wake-Up Call for the Garden Sector

From 2026 onwards, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will become reality. Products imported into the EU will need to meet much stricter CO₂ and environmental criteria. For manufacturers, sustainability is no longer just a selling point — it's a legal requirement.For us at Hongmao Garden, it was clear: we cannot wait until the rules take effect. We must lead. And that’s exactly what we’ve done. For years we have been investing in green production and intelligent product development.

How We Live Sustainability — Rather Than Just Talk About It

From the very start, we obtained the EIA certification from China’s Ministry of Environment. But that was just the beginning.

What we do concretely:

• Photovoltaic system generating 800,000 kWh per year — covering a large portion of our energy demand.

• Automated production — yielding 95% material utilisation, reducing waste and energy cost.

• Recyclable packaging — no more Styrofoam excess, instead PE foams and cartons that actually make sense.

• Lean manufacturing — greater efficiency, lower costs, better pricing for our customers.

Best of all: these measures don’t make our products more expensive. On the contrary. They make them more affordable in the long run — for retailers and consumers alike.

Durable Rather Than Disposable: Our Answer to Throwaway Goods

If you buy cheaply, you buy twice. That’s why we took a different approach: “Use longer, replace less often” — that’s our principle.

Our products are made of galvanised, weather-resistant steel. They undergo:

• 96 hours salt spray test

• 1,000 hours UV ageing test

• IPX6 water test and drop tests

We ensure they last for years — whether in Norway or northern Italy. And yes, we also think of smart features: solar lighting, app control, or modular extensions — it’s all coming.

Intelligent Garden Products: The Future Grows With Us

A good product today does more than just its function — it feels right, looks good and makes life easier.

Thus, we are working on products with:

• Solar modules for sustainable energy

• Voice control or app connectivity for weather info, care instructions or irrigation

• Modular expansions to flexibly cover different life situations

Our goal: a garden that is not only beautiful, but also intelligent, sustainable and easy to care for. A true outdoor experience for modern consumers — and a genuine USP for retailers.

Sustainability Pays Off — For Everyone

In the past two decades I’ve seen many trends come and go. But one thing is certain: sustainability stays.

With Hongmao Garden we focus not only on beautiful, functional products — but on solutions that:

• Are EU-compliant and future-proof

• Help trading partners differentiate in the competition

• Allow end customers a better outdoor life

Whether you’re sourcing for a DIY chain, an e-commerce shop or a garden brand — with us you gain more than just products: you gain a stable, flexible and green partner for your future.

Curious to know more? Let’s talk — about your requirements, your challenges, your ideas. We’re ready.