The Church of England is preparing to clamp down on the use of flowers in churches as part of its push to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, with proposals to prioritise British-grown blooms and phase out floral foam.
The plans, which are due to be debated by the General Synod, have been championed by the Bishop of Dudley, the Right Reverend Martin Gorick. Supporters say the measures would significantly reduce the environmental impact of church decorations used for services, weddings and funerals.
A central element of the proposals is a ban on floral foam, the green synthetic material commonly used by florists to hold arrangements in place. The foam is made from plastic, does not biodegrade and breaks down into microplastics that can pollute soil and waterways. Campaigners argue its widespread use sits uneasily with the Church’s public commitment to environmental stewardship.
Under the motion, churches would also be encouraged to move away from imported flowers, many of which are flown thousands of miles from Africa or South America, and instead source seasonal flowers grown in the UK. Proponents say this would cut transport emissions while supporting local growers and strengthening links between churches and their communities.
Alternative methods for arranging flowers are being promoted, including the use of reusable mechanics such as chicken wire, twigs, moss and pebbles, as well as simple vases and containers. Churches are also being urged to reuse arrangements across multiple services, compost plant waste, and donate flowers to care homes or hospitals once displays are no longer needed.
The proposals form part of the Church’s wider net-zero strategy, which already includes measures to reduce energy use in historic buildings and switch to renewable heating where possible.
Not everyone is convinced. Some florists and church flower arrangers have raised concerns about cost, practicality and durability, particularly for large or complex displays at major ceremonies. They argue that while alternatives to floral foam exist, they can require more time, skill and expense.
The debate is expected to attract strong views when the synod meets, highlighting how the Church’s climate ambitions are reaching into even the most traditional aspects of worship. If approved, the changes would signal that, in the Church of England’s journey to net zero, even flowers are no longer exempt.