Every year, I volunteer to help clean up litter in my neighborhood in Calgary. It’s something I first became aware of through my time bird watching in the area — I kept noticing the amount of waste accumulating in and around our local cemetery, which eventually inspired me to start volunteering to help address it. During these clean-ups, I’ve grown increasingly concerned about the amount of discarded artificial flowers I find on the grounds. These synthetic tributes don’t just spoil the natural beauty and solemnity of these sacred places but also contribute significantly to environmental degradation. Many of these flowers, being exposed to the elements, start to decompose over time, leaching harmful chemicals, dyes, and microplastics into the surrounding soil and water.

The impact of such pollution goes far beyond just the visual blight. Microplastics are known to have adverse effects on wildlife, soil health, and even human health when they enter our water systems. As members of this community, we are responsible for the spaces we share — and we owe it to our environment and to future generations to take proactive steps in preserving their health and integrity.

Encouragingly, Calgary has already taken a step in the right direction. The City’s own Cemetery General Rules and Guidelines prohibit artificial floral decorations on turf areas between May 1st and September 30th — a clear acknowledgment that these materials are a problem. But a seasonal restriction only goes so far. Artificial flowers left during the winter months still break down, still shed microplastics, and still end up as litter when the weather turns. It’s time to complete what Calgary has already started, and extend this common-sense policy into a full year-round ban.

Banning the use of artificial flowers in Calgary cemeteries is a practical and necessary step. Instead, we can encourage the use of natural flowers which decompose naturally and enrich the soil, fostering a more eco-friendly resting place. Families visiting the cemeteries could be encouraged to bring native plant species that not only honor their loved ones but also promote local biodiversity.

Other cities in Canada and around the world have already taken similar actions to reduce environmental harm while still allowing families to pay their respects in meaningful, sustainable ways. Calgary can lead by example, showing that we care about our environment as much as we care about remembering and honouring those we’ve lost.

Join me in urging the city council and local cemetery authorities to make this crucial change. Please sign this petition to ban the use of artificial flowers in Calgary cemeteries and help protect our environment for the generations to come. Together, we can make a positive impact on our community and our world. Sign now and be a part of the change!