Passages US Catalog - Catalog - Page 4
What is a greener funeral?
A greener funeral, also known as a “natural funeral” or “eco-funeral,” is any end-of-life ritual that is as harmless
as possible to the environment. The essence of a greener funeral is a reduction in environmental impact.
Green or natural burial
This is the greenest option when it comes to an eco-friendly
funeral. Burial typically occurs in a hand-dug grave at a green cemetery,
using a shroud or eco-friendly casket crafted from wicker or similar
sustainable material, and does not include the use of a vault. The body is
not embalmed and will return to the earth naturally over time, along with the
shroud or casket. This alternative to traditional burial also encourages
family participation and is often more healing and meaningful for mourners.
Cremation – using fewer resources
For many years, cremation has been the most common alternative to the traditional funeral.
Cremation uses far fewer resources than conventional burial, but it does have an environmental impact. Families
choosing cremation can take additional steps to make the process more eco-friendly, beginning with the use of
shrouds or cleaner burning eco-friendly caskets. Cremation also allows for the recycling of medical implants.
Most cemeteries provide a variety of options for cremated remains, including interment in ground spaces,
columbaria (above-ground niches), or special gardens for the scattering of the remains. These are also greener
options, because they use less space.
New options - a lighter footprint
Cremated remains may be placed in urns made from materials that
break down naturally, or specially-designed and recyclable
scattering tubes that facilitate a clean and easy scattering. For those
selecting water burial, there are salt, gelatin, and other biodegradable urns designed to float briefly, and then biodegrade within
hours or days. By using an urn that can be placed directly into the
water, a more dignified memorial experience can be achieved.
For more information, please visit www.agreenerfuneral.org
