What to plant in cemeteries? Five alternatives to artificial flowers named by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection

Starting from 2024, companies and entrepreneurs producing or importing plastic flowers into Belarus are obliged to pay for their future disposal (180 Belarusian rubles per ton). These funds are allocated for organizing the collection and safe recycling of this waste. "Artificial flowers decompose over a long period, negatively impact the environment, and pollute soil and groundwater. To minimize waste generation for which there are no disposal or neutralization options in the country, the waste management strategy for production and consumption waste provides for the introduction of restrictions on the production and supply of goods that result in the generation of this type of waste." Furthermore, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection is working on preparing an Ecological Code. One of its objectives is to prohibit the production of certain goods whose waste is difficult or impossible to recycle. The draft Ecological Code envisages empowering the Council of Ministers to establish such a list, and the inclusion of artificial plastic flowers will be considered when forming it. What can be used to replace artificial flowers in cemeteries? Live potted flowers, perennial plants in the ground, dwarf shrubs, lawn grass, or evergreen coniferous trees. "We urge you to abandon artificial arrangements and choose nature and the health of future generations."