The problem of artificial flowers
Our cemeteries are always associated with tons of artificial flowers! But seemingly harmless plastic flowers cause immense harm to nature and are dangerous to humans!
Annually, after holidays, about 1 million artificial flowers are taken to solid municipal waste landfills. Have you ever thought about the fact 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. When they are burned, heavy metals and dioxins are released into the environment, negatively affecting human health, and especially the health of children.
Why should you give up artificial flowers?
Artificial flowers, during their time 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 synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, latex, organza, 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, headache, 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 flowers and small decor can be made of styrofoam, which, when heated (for example, by the sun), can release a carcinogenic substance – styrene.
The Mior 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 or to minimize the number of these flowers, replace them with live ones, and also to use candles and fabric ribbons for grave decorations.
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. For the soul of the departed, prayer in a church is more important than a flower on their grave…