Going Out Green: The Earth-Loving Trend in Burials You Need to Know About

Green burial, also known as eco-friendly burial, is gaining popularity nationwide. We are passionate about sustainability and supporting families in making environmentally conscious choices. Even though green burial is on the rise, many may still be unfamiliar with what it entails and why it is so important. In this article, we will explore the meaning of green burial, its significance, and its benefits.

What is Green Burial?

Green burial is an environmentally-friendly way to return to the earth, allowing loved ones to become one with nature once more. Its main focus is ensuring your loved one is buried using natural, sustainable materials that can easily decompose. The body can be placed in a shroud, quilt, blanket, or a biodegradable casket made from sustainable materials such as bamboo, wicker, or cardboard. Green burial also typically involves skipping steps with environmentally hazardous implications, like embalming. Instead, usually a natural burial means the body is buried as is without any chemicals that could potentially seep into the earth.

The Importance of Green Burial

Green burial has numerous benefits, both for the environment and for those seeking more affordable options. Among other things, these benefits include environmental preservation and cost reduction for families.

Environmental Preservation

Traditional burial practices often involve caskets and burial vaults made from wood, metal, or concrete. All these materials have a lasting impact on our ecosystem. In contrast, green burials significantly reduce carbon emissions and work towards the preservation of our natural surroundings. By choosing an eco-friendly burial, you actively contribute to the conservation of our planet. This ensures a healthier future for generations to come.

Lower Costs

Beyond their ecological advantages, green burials are also more cost-friendly. The expenses of embalming and preparing the body for burial can be financially burdensome for many families. Green burial materials often cost less. They eliminate the need for burial vaults and other environmentally hazardous steps like embalming. If you want to reduce the cost of burial services while also caring for the environment, green burial is an ideal choice.

Creating a Natural Final Resting Place

One distinguishing feature of green burial is the lack of traditional headstones or markers. The intention behind this is to ensure that no man-made materials remain as time passes. This allows nature to take its course undisturbed. If having a permanent location for your loved one's final resting place is important to you, options are available. You could choose to lay them beside a tree or designate a natural marker, such as a large rock, to create a place for remembrance.

Celebrating Their Life

While green burial may differ from traditional practices, it still allows for the celebration of a life well-lived. Through personalized, eco-friendly memorial services, you can honor your loved one's unique journey. Whether it's holding a gathering beneath a shaded tree or sharing stories in a tranquil setting, you can choose a meaningful and serene way to preserve memories and pay tribute to the life of your loved one.

Next Steps

Green burial is a choice that supports our planet’s ecosystem while honoring the life of your loved one. By selecting this ecologically responsible option, you actively contribute to preserving the planet and creating a sustainable future for generations to come. Afterall is here to help you forge a path toward a more compassionate and environmentally conscious future. Contact a nearby location to learn more about your green burial options.

To learn about green cremations next, take a look at our article Green Cremation: A Sustainable Alternative.