SCF Ambassador Beth Bruce-Gardener with a sustainable flower arrangement.
A motion encouraging the use of sustainable church flowers has been passed by General Synod.
Approved on 12 February, it calls on churches to rethink how floral arrangements are sourced and arranged. At its heart is a commitment to reducing environmental harm caused by microplastics, chemical sprays and the high carbon footprint associated with imported flowers.
It also reflects the Christian commitment to ‘strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth’, encouraging practical action within church communities.
Beth Bruce-Gardner, Ambassador for Sustainable Church Flowers and Chair of St Mary’s Fairford Eco-Church Group, said: “The passing of this motion offers new opportunities for meaningful community engagement and support of the local economy. It’s also a visible sign that we are a living, caring Church willing to act in line with our values.
“Full implementation may take a little time, but the obvious place to start is in our own churches and cathedrals. It’s a case of setting our own house in order.”
The initiative promotes a return to locally sourced, natural materials, encouraging churches to make use of the ‘natural bounty’ available in their own surroundings. It offers a more ethical way to mark important life events such as christenings, weddings and funerals, without damaging ecosystems or contributing to poor labour practices. It also highlights the importance of ensuring that celebrations and acts of remembrance do not inadvertently cause harm to workers involved in the global flower trade.
“The Sustainable Church Flowers movement has willing, committed and skilled ambassadors throughout the country who are ready to help and encourage the path to more sustainable practices,” Beth said. “If a full commitment is made in individual churches and cathedrals, the wider issue of general commercial floristry practice and its overlap with church events, funeral flowers in particular, can more sympathetically be addressed.
“Working constructively with florists will be key, but churches must first ensure their own regular floral displays are fully sustainable before seeking wider change.”
The Diocese of Gloucester supports the motion, in line with A Rocha’s call for environmentally responsible practices in places of worship.
News Hub
