Up and down the country, funerals and weddings prompt extravagant floral displays. However, the botanic bundles come at a cost - and it is a price that many churches are no longer willing to pay. 

The Church of England is calling for a ban on certain flower arrangements, in line with its net zero target. 

The General Synod - the legislative body with the Church - is currently considering the potential move, which would see foam banned from funeral and wedding flowers.

Instead, well-wishers will need to use pebbles, sand or moss to form the foundation of their bouquets. 

The floral foam is damaging to the environment, but is commonly used when creating intricate wreaths or shaped arrangements. 

The material isn't biodegradable, prompting the General Synod to consider a blanket ban on the material. 
The debate was raised by lay member Charles Houston, who suggested there should be sanctions or repercussions for those who continue to use the damaging foam. 

The Church of England wants to reach net zero by 2030; a topic at the forefront of conversations in London during this week assembly. 

The General Synod is currently in talks in Westminster, deliberating and debating over the most prominent issues likely to face the Church in the coming year. 

At present, rules surrounding floral arrangements fall to individual parishes - many of whom have opted to go foam-free - but concern appears to be mounting, leading the assembly to consider more drastic action. 

Eco Church - a well-known environmental movement within the Church of England - are backing the potential plans.
A Rocha UK, a partner organisation, is running the campaign.