How Tree Pod Burials Work: Process, Pros & Cost

Focusing on sustainability, this eco-friendly funeral option nurtures the bond between nature and memorial traditions.

The innovative concept of how tree pod burials work, is where the deceased are placed in biodegradable pods that transform into nourishing elements for a tree.

Let’s examine how these decisions pay tribute to both those who have passed away and our planet.

What Is a Tree Pod Burial?

A human tree pod burial is a an eco-alternative where the deceased is place in a biodegradable pod, which when buried the remains decompose with the pod promoting the growth of a new tree.

Tree Pod Burials are fairly new in terms of their development:

• The Living Urn, and Bios Urn, are doing fantastic things with cremation tree pod burials, which can be purchased directly by consumers.
• Capsula Mundi, is pioneering in the field of body pod burials – which doesn’t have an option for consumers to buy directly but shows the up and coming innovations being invented.

Compared to traditional burials, with their heavy carbon footprint and embalming fluids, and contribution of to 1.6 million tons of concrete in burial vaults annually, these are much more eco-friendly.

How Tree Pod Burials Work

Being buried in a tree pod involves placing the deceased in a fetal position inside a biodegradable pod, and burying it. As the pod interacts with the soil it slowly breaks down and enriches the surrounding earth.

A young tree is then planted above the pod allowing it to draw nutrients and gradually absorb the essence of the person who has passed away. Alternatively, you can plant a tree with ashes by using a biodegradable urn, in which a sapling is planted, and the urn buried. These beautiful processes represent the cycle of life.

Selection of a Suitable Tree and Location

Selecting a tree and location for a buried-to-become-a-tree pod involves careful considerations. Choose native tree species suitable for the climate and soil conditions, ensuring their health and longevity.

Opt for accessible yet peaceful areas, allowing loved ones to visit comfortably. Prioritize aesthetics that resonate with the departed’s spirit and research local regulations and permissions to ensure compliance.

Preparation and Planting of the Tree Pod

Before a tree pod planting burial, proper handling and storage of the remains are essential.

• If the burial isn’t immediate, the body should be stored in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight.
• This ensures the preservation of the remains’ integrity until they can be placed in the pod and contribute to the growth of a new life.

Next is to ensure the pod is fully intact and ready to cradle the remains. Handle the remains with utmost respect and care, placing them securely within the pod. Prior to planting, confirm the pod is properly sealed to prevent any leakage. With the pod prepared and the remains safely nestled, plant it beneath the chosen tree.

Caring for the Tree and Monitoring its Growth

Monitoring the tree that was planted through a pod burial is a fulfilling experience.

Create a serene memorial place by adding some personalized markers, benches, or even a quaint little pathway. Make sure to water the tree and give it the right nutrients for healthy growth.

Using mulch will help keep the soil moist and maintain the soil’s temperature. It’s important to keep an eye on the tree’s health and prune it if necessary.

The natural development of the site will serve as a reminder of life’s changing cycle, while the care and personal touches will make the place special.

The Benefits of Tree Pod Burials

The advantages of choosing a tree pod burial are profound and far-reaching. Not only is it an eco-friendly option but it also actively contributes to the restoration of forests, which leads to a healthier planet. As the pod decomposes it enriches the soil, encourages biodiversity, and helps to revive ecosystems.

Additionally, for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, this process provides comfort as they witness how the remains return to the Earth with a tree pod burial, creating an emotional and spiritual connection with nature.

Commemoration of the Loved One

Honoring a loved one with a tree pod burial holds significance and lasting meaning.

It allows us to associate their memory with nature, symbolizing the cycle of life, growth, and renewal.

As the tree flourishes and thrives it serves as a testament to the lasting influence of those who have departed. Visiting this setting will provide comfort to family and friends, creating a peaceful space for introspection and cherished memories.

Are Tree Pod Burials Legal?

Tree pod burials are generally legal, but the availability of burial grounds accommodating such arrangements is limited.

Regulations surrounding tree pod burials vary, and while they are permissible in some places, there’s a scarcity of sites offering this option for honoring the deceased in a natural and environmentally friendly way.

Average Cost of a Tree Pod Burial

The average cost of a tree pod burial can vary depending on factors such as location and whether you are using a biodegradable urn or not.

In the United States, the average cost of a tree pod burial can range from:

• $1,000 to $4,000, largely depending on the specific location and the type of tree chosen.
• This cost typically includes the biodegradable pod and the tree seed, but might not cover the price of a burial plot in a natural cemetery, which can vary widely.

In the UK, the price range is similar, starting at around:

• £750 and going up to £3,000, with variations based on the same factors.

These costs are typically lower than conventional burials and cremations, which can exceed $7,000, when factoring in caskets, cemetery plots, and services.

They also reflect not only the minimalistic nature of the service but also its sustainable appeal. It’s not just a farewell to loved ones but a return to nature that continues to contribute to the environment long after the burial.

How to Choose a Tree Pod Burial That Meets Your Needs 

Selecting a tree pod burial that suits your needs involves several key considerations.

• Firstly, choose a location that holds personal significance and permits tree burials. Research the tree species available, as certain trees might resonate with you or have symbolic meaning.
• Evaluate your personal preferences – whether you seek solitude or a more accessible spot.
• Then, compare costs and services by different providers, factoring in any customization options they offer. Look into additional features like memorial plaques or dedicated landscaping.

Ultimately, make an informed decision that aligns with your emotional, financial, and ecological priorities, ensuring the chosen tree pod burial honors your loved one in a meaningful way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tree pod burials work by providing an environmentally conscious way to commemorate your loved ones.

By selecting a tree and location, taking personal preferences into account, and comparing costs, you can create a personalized experience that truly honors your loved one’s memory.

Choosing a tree pod burial goes beyond breaking tradition; it symbolizes a commitment to building a future where cherished memories thrive while preserving the environment.