The problem of artificial flowers

In just a few weeks, cemeteries across the country will be flooded with tons of artificial flowers! However, seemingly harmless plastic flowers cause immense harm to nature and are dangerous to humans!

Every year, after the holidays, about 1 million artificial flowers are taken to municipal solid waste landfills. Have you ever considered that their decomposition period ranges from one hundred to five hundred years and, unfortunately, they cannot be recycled?!

It is significantly worse when these flowers are burned. During their incineration, heavy metals and dioxins are released into the environment, negatively affecting human health, especially the health of children.

Why should you give up artificial flowers?

Artificial flowers, during their presence in apartments, at dachas, and at burial sites, release a considerable amount of toxic substances, polluting soil, air, and groundwater.

Despite their attractiveness and ease of use, they are typically made from various artificial materials.

The petals are made of synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, and latex treated with various chemical compounds to impart plasticity and durability. For their coloring, aniline dyes are most often used, which are quite toxic compounds that can negatively affect health, causing dizziness, headaches, and weakness.

The stems, buds, and other decorative elements of artificial flowers are most often made of plastic, usually PVC, which is also quite toxic.

The centers of the flowers and small decorative elements can be made of foam, which, when heated (for example, by the sun), can release a carcinogenic substance – styrene.

The Rosson District Inspectorate of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection asks residents and guests of the district to refrain from decorating the graves of relatives and loved ones with artificial flowers, to replace them with live ones, and also to use candles and fabric ribbons for grave decoration.

By taking such actions, you will show respect not only to the memory of the deceased but also to yourselves and future generations, making your personal contribution to environmental protection.