In November 2024, the Diocesan Synod passed this motion:
That this synod, embracing the principles of the Sustainable Church Flowers movement which encourages a living into the Fifth Mark of Mission by promoting the use of local, seasonal and fully biodegradable/ compostable flowers and foliage without floral foam (oasis).
- Encourages the use of locally grown flowers and foliage, wherever possible, throughout the churches of the Diocese
- Strongly discourages the use of all floral foam (and its substitutes) in all churches and churchyards across the Diocese.
Floral foam is made of plastic which easily crumbles into microscopic fragments, and it is not compostable. The use of floral foam or oasis is relatively new. It has only been used since the 1940s. The foam is generally used wet and after being soaked, wastewater is typically discarded into the sink or drain, adding to the problem of microplastic contamination in aquatic environments. Many of our churches are already using chicken wire and bamboo as an alternative to foam, which is a much more sustainable solution.
The Sustainable Church Flowers group based in the Diocese are happy to support parishes in switching to the use of locally grown, seasonable flowers and foliage which is arranged without floral foam.
“Like many, I love to see flower arrangements in church and always admire the ingenuity and skill of flower arrangers, however I have recently been made aware of the damaging impact of floral foam. As a diocese, we are committed to playing our part in tackling the climate crisis and stopping using floral foam is one change that we can make in the fight to reduce single use plastics. The Royal Horticultural Society have now banned floral foam in their displays at shows, such as Chelsea and Malvern, and I urge churches to also take a lead in this area to ensure our wonderful floral displays are as sustainable as possible.” (Bishop Martin)
Bishop Martin recorded a conversation with royal florist Shane Connolly, in which the micro-plastics associated with floral foam are highlighted and possible alternatives are discussed. Watch the videos below. There is a longer video with their conversation in full as well as shorter edits on different topics.