A green burial, also known as a natural burial or eco-friendly burial, is an environmentally conscious approach to interring a deceased person's body. The primary focus of a green burial is to minimize the ecological impact associated with traditional burial practices and to promote the return of the body to the earth in a way that supports natural decomposition and regeneration. The objective of a green burial is to allow the body to decompose naturally and become part of the ecosystem, nourishing the soil and contributing to new life. Green burials provide a way for individuals to leave a positive environmental legacy, as well as offer a unique and meaningful way to honor their loved ones in harmony with nature.
Can I be embalmed?
Unlike conventional burials that often involve embalming the body to temporarily preserve it for viewing, green burials utilizes alternative preservative measures such as refrigeration. If embalming is necessary, only eco-friendly, non-toxic alternatives should be used. Verify with your green burial cemetery first.
What can I be buried in?
Green burials utilize biodegradable materials for the casket or container. These can include simple wooden caskets, wicker baskets, or even just a cloth shroud. All materials need to be 100% organic. These materials break down naturally over time, allowing the body to return to the earth more efficiently.
Do I need a vault?
Vaults are not permitted. In green burials, the body is allowed to have direct contact with the soil.
Do I need a headstone?
Green burials may involve eco-friendly memorials, such as engraved stones, biodegradable plaques, or GPS coordinates, rather than traditional headstones made from non-biodegradable materials.
Where can I have a green burial?
Green burials are typically conducted in designated green cemeteries or natural burial grounds. These sites are carefully chosen to promote conservation, often located in natural settings like forests, meadows, or other areas that encourage native plant and wildlife preservation. Some cemeteries may be hybrid, allowing both traditional and green burials to occur. Check out the Green Burial Council's website for approved locations near you.
Will my grave be disturbed?
Green burial sites are often protected as permanent green spaces, ensuring that the land remains undeveloped and preserved for environmental conservation.
Will animals dig up my grave?
All graves must be dug to a depth appropriate to protect the loved one's remains from being detected by wildlife. The general rule is to measure from the tip of the nose or hipbone to the surface to be sure to achieve an 18" - 24" smell barrier. This depth of soil is more than sufficient to remove any smell that animals, much less humans, can detect.
Can I plant a tree over my loved one’s grave?
Many green burial sites encourage the planting of native trees, shrubs, or wildflowers, fostering biodiversity and supporting the restoration of natural habitats. Check with your provider before planting any kind of flora.
Even though I’m having a green burial, can I still have a service?
Yes! A green burial service encourages the engagement of the family to lay to rest their loved one in a personal and meaningful way. A Celebration of Life Service, Memorial Service, or Traditional Funeral Rites Services may be held prior to or after the interment service. Check with your local cemetery or funeral home provider.
10 Reasons To Choose Green Burial
Green burial is an environmentally conscious and sustainable approach to laying our loved ones to rest. Here are ten reasons to choose a green burial:
Cultural Significance: Green burials reflect practices that have been employed for centuries in various cultures around the world. Choosing this option can honor and preserve cultural traditions while also embracing modern environmental values.
Environmental Conservation: Green burials have minimal impact on the environment compared to traditional burials. They avoid using toxic embalming fluids, non-biodegradable caskets, and concrete burial vaults that can leach harmful chemicals into the soil.
Preserving Natural Habitats: Green burial sites are often located in natural settings, such as forests or meadows. By choosing a green burial, you contribute to the preservation and restoration of these natural habitats. In fact, many green burial sites encourage the planting of native trees and plants. This fosters biodiversity and supports local ecosystems.
Connection to Nature: Green burial sites often offer a serene and natural environment, providing a peaceful resting place that allows loved ones to feel more connected to nature during visits.
Carbon Footprint Reduction: Traditional burials, with their energy-intensive practices, contribute to carbon emissions. Green burials, on the other hand, reduce the overall carbon footprint as they require fewer resources and energy.
No Harmful Chemicals: Embalming fluids used in traditional burials contain chemicals like formaldehyde, which can be harmful to the environment and those handling the body. Green burials avoid this toxic practice.
Conserves Resources: Green burials promote the use of biodegradable materials, such as simple wooden caskets or shrouds, which require fewer resources to manufacture compared to traditional caskets made from metal or concrete.
Supporting Ethical Practices: Many green burial grounds are operated by organizations with strong environmental and ethical principles. By choosing a green burial, you support these initiatives and contribute to their continued growth.
Legacy of Sustainability: Choosing a green burial is a meaningful way to leave behind a positive legacy and demonstrate your commitment to environmental stewardship.
Cost-Effective: Green burials can be more affordable than traditional burials. The simplicity of the burial process and the use of eco-friendly materials can help reduce overall costs.
Overall, a green burial offers a respectful and sustainable way to say goodbye to loved ones while positively impacting the planet and future generations. It provides a final resting place that celebrates life and fosters the growth of new life within the embrace of nature.
