The Green Alternative – Environmentally Responsible

There is a growing awareness of the high environmental impact of some of our most common burial practices. The unnatural process of embalming introduces a host of harmful chemicals into the earth, treated and polished tombstones resist bio-degradation, and traditional caskets are made specifically catering to permanency. In effect, our cemeteries become natural dead zones where life will ever have little chance of flourishing. To correct this, green burial is an emerging alternative.

What is Green Burial?

A green burial is an environmental alternative to a standard burial, intended to minimize the environmental impacts of death and conserve natural resources. In a green burial, an un-embalmed body decomposes naturally in the earth, and a biodegradable green casket or cloth body shroud takes the place of a traditional coffin. Green burials can take place in traditional cemeteries, specially designated green cemeteries, or even on private land.

Why Green Burial?

Nature takes its course in a green burial. Green burial strives to avoid intrusion into its surroundings; herbicides and pesticides are not used at green cemeteries, vaults or tombstones do not alter the landscape. Green burial is environmentally friendly and will help to preserve nature.

Choosing the Casket

Choosing the appropriate disposition container is an important step in the green burial process, significantly lessening the environmental impact of death.

A “green” coffin, is suitable for a “green” burial, on the other hand, it is natural, biodegradable, and produced in a sustainable way that conforms to fair trade practices. A green coffin can be made of wicker, bamboo, or even cardboard. You can also use a cloth (natural fiber) shroud, which can be purchased far in advance, and are far more easily stored than caskets. Remember that refrigeration or storage of the body must also be considered.

Also, be sure to have any environmentally harmful objects (such as tooth fillings, pacemakers, and other implants) removed prior to burial.

Talk to us about your need for this particular service. We’re more than happy to assist you in becoming a friend of the environment.