Flowers have long held a special place in our hearts, symbolizing love, beauty, and celebration. However, as our awareness of environmental issues grows, so does the need for sustainable practices in every industry, including floristry. Here at Salt Floral, we recognize the importance of avoiding floral foam. In this blog post, we will delve into sustainable floristry and emphasize why steering clear of floral foam is crucial for preserving our natural world.
Understanding Sustainable Floristry:
Sustainable floristry goes beyond simply arranging flowers. It encompasses a holistic approach that considers the environmental and social impact of the entire floral industry. It promotes ethical sourcing, minimizes waste, and employs practices that protect and support the natural ecosystems from which flowers are derived.
The Problem with Floral Foam:
Floral foam, a synthetic material widely used in floral arrangements, has long been a florist staple tool. It is often chosen for its ability to hold and hydrate flowers, providing stability and longevity to arrangements. However, floral foam poses significant environmental challenges that cannot be overlooked.
1. Non-biodegradable: Floral foam is made of non-biodegradable plastic, usually containing toxic components such as formaldehyde and phenol. When disposed of, it remains in landfills indefinitely, releasing harmful chemicals into the environment.
2. Microplastic Pollution: As floral foam breaks down over time, it disintegrates into microplastic particles. These particles can easily find their way into water bodies, where they have a detrimental impact on aquatic life and the overall ecosystem.
3. Resource Intensive: The production of floral foam requires the consumption of fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources. Its manufacturing process also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
Salt Floral Approach:
Salt Floral, we embraces eco-friendly alternatives to the floral foam. By avoiding its use, Salt Floral reduces its environmental footprint while delivering stunning, aesthetically pleasing and sustainable arrangements for our customers.
1. Natural Alternatives: Salt Floral uses natural alternatives to a floral foam, such as chicken wire, moss, reusable frogs(Japanese Kenzan), and water-filled vases. These materials provide stability and hydration to arrangements without causing harm to the environment.
2. Ethical Sourcing: Salt Floral takes great care in sourcing flowers and foliage from eco-conscious growers who prioritize sustainable practices. By supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation, Salt Floral contributes to a more sustainable floral industry.
3. Waste Reduction: Salt Floral minimizes waste in its operations by avoiding floral foam. Instead, we focus on reusing and recycling materials wherever possible, ensuring that our floral creations have a minimal environmental impact.
The Importance of Sustainable Floristry:
By adopting sustainable floristry practices, including the elimination of floral foam, we can make a positive impact on our planet. Here are some key reasons why this shift is crucial:
1. Protecting Ecosystems: By avoiding harmful materials like floral foam, we safeguard natural ecosystems, preserving biodiversity and the delicate balance of our environment.
2. Reducing Plastic Pollution: Floral foam significantly contributes to plastic pollution. By finding alternatives, we help minimize the release of microplastics into the environment and protect marine life.
3. Setting an Example: As florists embrace sustainable practices, we aim to inspire others in the industry and consumers to prioritize sustainability. Collectively, we can drive positive change and promote a greener future.
Sustainable floristry, exemplified by the practices of Salt Floral, showcases the beauty of nature without compromising the environment. By steering clear of floral foam and adopting natural alternatives, we preserve the delicate ecosystems that provide us with these beautiful gifts from nature. Let us embrace.
Together, Let's Bloom
Salt Floral Team