What is natural or “green” burial?

Natural burial is not a complicated process. Bodies are interred in the ground, often at 3 or 4 feet deep, in a biodegradable coffin or shroud. Families are encouraged to participate in most aspects of the process, including filling the grave after the service or gathering. So, what makes natural burial “green”?

• absence of a concrete vault

• non-toxic preparation of the body

• use of biodegradable containers

• graves are hand-dug with no heavy equipment used

• grave markers are made from natural, local materials

• participation of loved ones

The natural burial process also protects worker health, significantly reduces carbon emissions, conserves natural resources and preserves native habitat. But, it’s not only the environment that benefits from natural burial. After a green burial, loved ones are left with a rich, meaningful and healing experience, one that’s available to everyone.

How else does green burial benefit everyone?

• Reduces carbon footprint while contributing to the Earth’s natural eco-cycle

• Occupies land with intrinsic ecological quality and meaningful social value

• Can be performed at traditional/ conventional cemeteries as well as more natural settings

• Encourages the use of biodegradable caskets, shrouds and urns, all often made by local craftspeople using local materials

• Does not allow toxic embalming fluids, vaults, herbicides or pesticides

• Grave markers can consist of natural art, benches, native plants or natural materials such as field stone

• Acts as a teaching and research opportunity

• May protect and restore native wildlife habitat and integrates sustainable native plant communities

• Creates recreational, cultural and spiritual gathering venues that are life affirming

Any more questions about natural burial?

Please contact Ed:

EdB@destinationdestinymemorials.com or (609)892-4429

or contact Matt:

sleeveen78@gmail.com or (608)-213-1888