Floral foam, also known as Oasis, is a green block of sponge-like foam that is widely used by florists for its convenience. It is commonly used to hold flowers in place and keep them hydrated while they are being arranged. Floral foam is a popular choice for florists as it is easy to use and can be cut to fit any size or shape of container.
However, the use of floral foam has a significant environmental impact. The foam is made from polystyrene, a type of plastic, and is not biodegradable. This means that when it is discarded, it will remain in the environment for many years, releasing toxic chemicals and contributing to plastic pollution.
In addition, floral foam is not recyclable and cannot be reused. This means that florists must buy new foam for each arrangement, creating more waste. Furthermore, floral foam is often used with floral preservatives, which contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to floral foam that are much more environmentally friendly. Florists can use chicken wire or moss to hold flowers in place, and water-absorbing gels can be used to keep the flowers hydrated. These alternatives are not only better for the environment, but they can also be reused and recycled.
In conclusion, floral foam is a convenient tool for florists, but its environmental impact is significant. Florists should consider using more eco-friendly alternatives such as chicken wire, moss, and water-absorbing gels to reduce their environmental footprint.
