Floral foam, ubiquitous in floral arrangements and compositions, seems at first sight to be a harmless product. Commonly used in events, decorations and floral creations, it is appreciated for its ability to hold flowers in place, allowing florists to create delicate and complex works. However, behind this façade of usefulness lies a major environmental concern that few people are aware of.
What is floral foam?
Floral foam, which is often green and crumbly, is a synthetic material made from plastics such as polyurethane and phenol-formaldehyde. This manufacturing process, which involves the use of chemicals, is in itself a source of pollution. The foam is produced in the form of light, porous blocks that are capable of absorbing water, leading people to believe that it could hydrate the flowers inserted in it. However, this perception is misleading.
Its primary benefit is not hydration
In the floral industry, floral foam is mainly used to hold flowers in place, particularly in floral arrangements for events such as weddings, funerals, and celebrations. It is also popular in table decorations and intricate floral designs, where it helps to fix flowers in precise positions without the risk of them shifting.
The environmental impact of floral foam
Floral foam is not biodegradable
One of the most serious problems with floral foam is that it is not biodegradable. Once it has been used, it ends up in the bin, and the waste remains in the environment for centuries. Unlike other materials used in floriculture, such as paper or cardboard, floral foam does not disintegrate naturally. It crumbles into microplastics, which contaminate soil and waterways, contributing to global plastic pollution.
Toxicity and chemical pollution
As well as being non-biodegradable, floral foam releases toxic substances when it decomposes. These include formaldehyde, a carcinogenic compound that can have harmful effects on human and animal health. By leaching into the soil and water, these substances threaten local flora and fauna. Microplastics from floral foam can be ingested by animals, disrupting ecosystems.
The production of floral foam requires a lot of energy
The production of floral foam is also energy-intensive. It requires raw materials derived from fossil fuels, the extraction, and processing of which are major sources of greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon footprint of this product, combined with its environmental impact at the end of its life, makes floral foam a particularly polluting material in the floral production chain.
Floral foam, although practical and ubiquitous in the floral industry, is far from being a harmless material. Its ecological impact, from production to end-of-life, is serious and requires a collective response. Fortunately, alternatives do exist, offering more sustainable and environmentally-friendly options. These alternatives will be presented in our magazine very soon, so stay tuned.