Green funerals – eco burials and greener cremations
Last updated 17th June 2024
3 min read
The modern world is changing to be more eco friendly, and funerals are adapting with it.
Eco-friendly funerals and greener cremations are becoming more popular. They give people a way to return their body to the earth in the most natural way possible. This type of funeral reduces your impact on the environment – and may even give something back.
This covers exactly what a green funeral is. It also explains how you can start planning your own eco-friendly burial or cremation.
What is a green funeral?
A green funeral is a type of burial that is less harmful and has less impact on the environment. Also called eco funerals, they often occur in a natural memorial setting. There is usually a biodegradable coffin and a small, personal ceremony.
Why should I choose an eco funeral?
Many of us are now more conscious of our carbon footprint. So it’s only natural to think about our impact on the environment, even after death.
Eco-friendly funerals are the answer. They reduce your carbon footprint with less chemicals and less pollution. Plus, they're more wildlife friendly.
Here are some other reasons to choose an eco funeral...
Eco-friendly funerals are often cheaper
A green funeral tends to be cheaper than a traditional burial, or even cremation. The ceremony itself can be simpler and personalised, reducing costs.
Eco-friendly burials also offer alternative biodegradable coffins such as willow or bamboo. These are cheaper than their solid wood counterparts.
A natural burial ground
Eco funerals such as woodland burials take place in a rural, natural setting. Your loved ones will have views of wildflowers, protected woodland or designated green forest.
These offer a peaceful resting place, while giving visitors a quiet place to return to.
Eco funeral and green funeral options
If you think a green funeral sounds like something you’d be interested in, it’s worth knowing the different types of eco-friendly options available...
What is a green burial?
A green burial is often called a natural burial or woodland burial. It involves laying a person to rest in a designated natural area. Eco burials are usually non-traditional, with a biodegradable coffin or shroud. They also tend to have a natural headstone and shallow grave.
Is there a green version of cremation?
Cremation is often seen as more harmful to the environment, due to the high fuel and energy usage. This has resulted in scientists researching ways to reduce the carbon footprint, such as water cremation(resomation.com opens in a new tab).
Water cremation isn’t available in the UK right now. But there are other ways you can have a greener cremation, including:
- Choosing a biodegradable cardboard cremation container
- Using a biodegradable or natural urn for the remains
- Selecting a cremation provider that uses energy-efficient furnaces
- Opting for a direct cremation to skip the embalming process
What are the other green alternatives to a traditional funeral?
Eco-friendly burials and green cremations are the most popular sustainable funeral choices. But there are other options out there.
Here are just a few of the other green funeral types you could consider:
- Sea burial
- Mushroom suit burial
- Body composting
- Burial shrouds
These sustainable and environmentally-friendly funerals aren’t usually covered by traditional funeral plans. They can also cost more. So it’s best to do some research on these funeral types before making any plans.
If you'd like in a green funeral, over 50s life insurance might be more suitable than a traditional funeral plan. It lets you leave your loved ones a cash sum to spend however they wish. This gives them the flexibility to choose a more alternative funeral type.
How can I start planning my eco funeral?
Perhaps you’re thinking about planning an eco funeral for yourself. Or maybe you're helping a loved one plan a green funeral. Either way, it’s worth thinking about which of the above options you’d prefer.
Think about how you’d like your resting place to reflect your life, and whether you’d prefer a burial or cremation.
Once you have an idea in mind, you could speak to a funeral director about what’s available in your local area. They’ll help you with the next steps.
Green funerals are not usually covered by traditional funeral plans. But they could be paid for with the help of over 50s life insurance. Just be sure to let your loved ones know your funeral wishes in advance.
Continue reading
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