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A natural burial it’s considered a more ecological alternative to traditional burial and even cremation. The simplicity of a green burial is in tune with nature, and it shows an end-of-life ceremony doesn’t need to be expensive to be meaningful.
Also known as natural burial, a green burial ensures the burial site remains as natural as possible in all respects. According to the Green Burial Council, there are three main characteristics to this practice: a non-toxic preparation of the body, the absence of a vault, and the use of containers made of organic material. In other words, there is no embalming and the use of biodegradable containers, such as caskets, shrouds, or nothing. These significant differences make green burial a good alternative for families concerned about reducing carbon emissions, workers’ health, and preserving the environment.
Embalming is the preservation of the human body using chemicals. It delays decomposition, and it is used for cosmetic purposes to keep the body looking “natural” during the viewing. The use of chemicals has serious consequences for the environment, as they are released on the soil and waters after the burial. Overall, embalming is not necessary for end-of-life ceremonies and can be substituted for more natural methods.
Green burial excludes the embalming process, and it doesn’t inhibit decomposition, allowing the body to nourish the soil after it’s buried. That doesn’t mean the body can’t be prepared for burial and public display. There are several techniques, such as refrigeration, and the use of topical nontoxic lotions and oils, to keep the body preserved during the ceremonies.
Although a little different from traditional practices, green burials still provide families a meaningful way of honoring their loved ones and allow people to start their healing journey all the same. There are some main reasons a family might choose to have a green burial for their loved one, amongst them:
Because green burial excludes several elements of a traditional burial, it tends to be a cheaper option. Embalming, vaults, and coffins are expensive, increasing the final prices of a burial service. Alongside that, the process of choosing all these items is time-consuming. The simplicity of the Green Burial not only relieves the family from financial burden but also saves time and worries.