Revolutionising Floristry: The Sustainable Solution with Phoam Labs and Dundee Butcher
An interview with Dundee Butcher, CEO of Phoam Labs, revealed groundbreaking developments in sustainable floristry. In a podcast conversation with Roz Chandler of Field Gate Flowers, Dundee shared insights into how Phoam Labs is transforming the industry with the world's first compostable floral foam. This innovative product provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional floral foams, which are petroleum-based and contribute significantly to environmental pollution.
The Environmental Challenge of Traditional Floral Foams
For decades, conventional floral foams have been a staple in the floristry industry due to their ability to support and hydrate flower arrangements. However, these foams are made from phenolic foam — a petroleum-based plastic that is non-recyclable and non-compostable. Over time, the foam breaks down into microplastics, which persist in the environment for centuries, polluting soil and waterways.
The scale of this problem is alarming. In the European Union alone, approximately 15,000 metric tons of floral foam are discarded annually. To put this into perspective, this is equivalent to 2.5 billion plastic bags, most of which end up in landfills or the ocean. Given the global movement towards sustainability, the floral industry has been under increasing pressure to find viable alternatives that do not compromise the quality of floral arrangements.
Phoam Labs' Sustainable Innovation
Phoam Labs is at the forefront of solving this environmental challenge with their groundbreaking compostable floral foam. Made from renewable plant materials, primarily industrial field corn, this plant-based polylactic acid (PLA) foam is designed to biodegrade completely within 25 days under industrial composting conditions. Unlike traditional floral foams, which release harmful chemicals as they degrade, Phoam Labs’ alternative contains no toxic substances, ensuring a safer product for both florists and the planet.
Phoam Labs is at the forefront of solving this environmental challenge with their groundbreaking compostable floral foam. Made from renewable plant materials, primarily industrial field corn, this plant-based polylactic acid (PLA) foam is designed to biodegrade completely within 25 days under industrial composting conditions. Unlike traditional floral foams, which release harmful chemicals as they degrade, Phoam Labs’ alternative contains no toxic substances, ensuring a safer product for both florists and the planet.
This innovation represents a significant step towards sustainability in floristry, allowing florists to continue creating stunning arrangements without harming the environment. By replacing petroleum-based foams with compostable alternatives, Phoam Labs is paving the way for a more responsible and eco-conscious floral industry.
Journey from Concept to Reality
Phoam Labs' journey began in 2016 when Dundee Butcher, a seasoned florist with a deep understanding of the industry's challenges, identified the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. With experience working at renowned London floral institutions like Jane Packer Flowers and McQueens, Dundee was well-positioned to lead this change.
Recognising the complexity of developing a compostable alternative, Phoam Labs partnered with the Sustainable Polymer Center at the University of Minnesota. After years of rigorous research and development, the company successfully secured patents for their innovative floral foam in both the US and Europe in 2022. This marked a major breakthrough, setting the stage for widespread adoption of sustainable floral materials.
Industry Recognition and Future Prospects
The impact of Phoam Labs’ innovation has been widely recognised within the floral industry. In 2023, they were awarded the prestigious Interflora Sustainability Award at the Floristry World Cup — an accolade that highlights the industry's commitment to more sustainable practices. As Phoam Labs moves from research and development into commercial production, their goal is to make their compostable foam accessible to florists worldwide.
With sustainability becoming an increasingly important factor in purchasing decisions, the demand for eco-friendly floral solutions is growing rapidly. Phoam Labs is poised to become a leader in this space, offering florists an opportunity to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on quality or design.
The Future of Sustainable Floristry
As more florists embrace sustainable practices, the industry is set for a major transformation. Phoam Labs’ compostable floral foam is not just an alternative; it is a catalyst for change, inspiring florists to rethink traditional materials and prioritize environmental responsibility. By adopting compostable foam, florists can contribute to a cleaner, greener future while continuing to create breathtaking floral displays.
➡️Learn more about Phoam Labs and their sustainable floral foam, on their official website