Understand Green Funerals: Impact, Types, and Cost

With the world’s ecological concerns deepening, recent years have seen a surge in interest towards eco-friendly funeral alternatives, challenging traditional norms.

Using eco-conscious practices, a green funeral minimizes environmental impact and promotes natural decomposition. From biodegradable caskets to carbon-neutral transportation, every element is thoughtfully chosen to reduce our ecological footprint.

So, what is a green funeral? In this guide, we’ll cover:

• How different is a green funeral to a traditional funeral?
• What makes a funeral green?
• Eco-friendly funeral logistics
• Green burial options
• Costs of a Green Funeral

Join us as we embark on a journey to discover how green funerals not only honor the departed but also leave a positive imprint on the planet for generations to come.

What Is a Green Funeral?

Some people call a green funeral also a natural funeral or natural burial. It:

• is a more eco-friendly burial practice to return our earthly remains.
• uses biodegradable materials such as bamboo or cardboard caskets, and organic shrouds make for beautifully memorable burial ceremonies.
• typically happens at green burial grounds, such as a woodland burial site, and the ambiance can have a profound impact being in nature.

When a completely natural funeral cannot be carried out, certainly many natural options and elements can be weaved into a more traditional burial, such as:

• Direct burial
• Water-based / acquamation
• Bio-cremation
• Recompose / soil cremation – saving one metric ton of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere

All forms of green funerals minimize carbon emissions, conserve natural resources, and foster a deeper connection with nature.

How Different Is a Green Funeral From a Traditional Funeral?

It’s tricky to talk about traditional burials because, historically, all funerals have happened quite naturally.

• Embalming, concrete vaults, and steel elements on coffins have become mainstream over the last handful of decades.
• When our great-grandparents were born, nature was much more present in everyone’s life and death. Becoming, quickly and seamlessly, one with Earth was not simply an option. It was a given.

Today, things are different.

• The range of funeral services and products reflects the growing complexity of our society.
• All the same, many shades of green can be incorporated into any funeral or memorial ceremony.
• The traditional approach to burials often involves embalming, solid, lasting caskets, and, usually, concrete vaults.
• In contrast, green funerals prioritize biodegradable materials and sustainable burial practices.

The Measurable Projected Impact of Traditional Funerals

Green funerals are starkly different from traditional burial practices in terms of environmental impact. 

The latest statistical data about the modern funeral industry highlights the environmental imprint of traditional burials and the advantages of green practices:

1. Embalming — Conventional burials often involve embalming using chemicals like formaldehyde. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, embalming results in over 4 million gallons of embalming fluid being buried annually, releasing harmful toxins into the soil and groundwater.
2. Lasting materials — Over 16 million tons of concrete are poured into cemeteries every year to create burial vaults. Add to that over 17,000 tons of bronze and copper, and nearly 65,000 tons of steel to get a more comprehensive picture of how costly traditional burial practices are.
3. Sustainability and preservation — Green funerals emphasize sustainability and reduce environmental impact. Natural burial sites, such as conservation burial grounds, promote the preservation of natural ecosystems. This approach safeguards biodiversity and preserves the delicate environmental balance.

By opting for environmentally friendly funerals, refraining from embalming, and utilizing biodegradable materials, we can significantly contribute to the long-term well-being of our planet.

More Complicated Logistics

End-of-life planning and funeral arrangements require careful consideration.

Typically, green funeral grounds are outside large cities. That can introduce logistical complexities. Visiting the graveside for years to come is a meaningful and serene opportunity to commemorate, but staging a funeral on such terrain requires careful planning.

Plan, plan, plan…

1. Having a Will – expressing your wishes will massively help.
2. Communicating your wishes – will help create a service that will include all that care for you.
3. Logistics – ensure there’s adequate transportation and appropriate clothing for all guests. Walking shoes and more practical attire might not be everyone’s idea about appropriate funeral etiquette.
4. Mobility – What’s more, not all natural burial grounds have paved walkways. That can hamper participants with limited mobility.

Solutions…

Hosting separate funeral services from the entombment itself is a way to mitigate such challenges.

By conducting a memorial service at a more accessible location, like a local chapel or community center, attendees can participate in funeral rituals without facing the logistical challenges of some green funeral grounds.

This allows for a more inclusive experience while still providing the opportunity for a quiet and contemplative visit to the graveside. We address such concerns later in the article.

What Makes a Funeral Green: Key Elements

A green funeral starts with small choices. For example, a simple shroud at a regular cemetery is a considerably greener option than a mausoleum.

Here are key elements for reducing CO2 emissions through end-of-life planning:

1. Green burial movement — Eco-friendly burial practices like:
   • using biodegradable coffins or shrouds
   • seasonal flowers sourced locally
   • foregoing embalming in favor of freezing help reduce the environmental impact of a traditional funeral
2. Eco-friendly funeral alternatives — Cremations are greener than funerals, but human composting and aquamation (water-based cremation) are even greener options. The latter two aren’t yet legal in all States but more and more jurisdictions are passing the necessary regulations.

There are many ways to reunite us with the Earth, even if natural burial isn’t a viable option. Let’s explore them in greater detail.

Shrouds or Natural Fiber Clothing

An accessible and environmentally friendly option for green burials is to use shrouds or natural fiber clothing made from organic and biodegradable materials.

• The issue is that not all traditional cemeteries would accept such an arrangement.
• When planning your funeral, it is best to consult with local funeral directors who can advise best on local regulations and peculiarities.
• Shrouds, often crafted from cotton or linen, have rich cultural and symbolic significance in various traditions.
• In Ancient Greek culture, shrouds represented a transition from the earthly realm to the afterlife. Similarly, in Christian traditions, the use of simple shrouds reflects humility and the idea of returning to the earth.

By choosing green burial shrouds or fiber clothing made from natural and biodegradable materials, individuals pay homage both to their environmental values and their cultural heritage.

Alternatives to Embalming Fluids

Embalming chemicals, such as formaldehyde, have a significant environmental impact, posing risks to soil and groundwater when the body decomposes. Fire crematories emit them into the atmosphere too.

Fortunately, there are alternative preservation techniques that allow for green burials without embalming.

1. Refrigeration – which slows down the body’s decomposition process without the need for harsh chemicals.
2. Dry ice – provides temporary preservation while minimizing environmental harm.
3. Essential oils – such as lavender or rosemary, also help in natural body preservation and dignified presentation.

Consult with a local funeral director who knows about  eco-friendly alternatives to embalming fluids, to better understand what options are realistically available.

Biodegradable Caskets and Other Materials

Biodegradable caskets made from eco-friendly materials play a crucial role in green burials.

• Constructed with sustainable resources like bamboo, willow, or cardboard, these caskets are made for natural decomposition and environmental preservation.
• They naturally break down rather quickly, facilitating the body’s integration with the earth and supporting the cycle of life.
• Such eco-friendly casket options don’t take away from the beauty of green burial ceremonies.
• Despite the relatively short lifespan of the materials, biodegradable caskets and shrouds are beautiful and dignified.

Locally-sourced seasonal flower arrangements, natural fabric coverings, and recycled paper products add a transient aspect to all elements of the ceremony by underlining the eternal circle of life.

Eco-friendly Cremation Containers & Urns

Biodegradable urns from sustainable materials like recycled paper, plant fibers, or biodegradable clay can be truly beautiful and loaded with subtle symbolism.

One of the remarkable aspects of these urns is the opportunity to dedicate them seamlessly to various locations. Whether it’s the serene depths of the ocean or a cherished spot in nature, these biodegradable urns make for memorable and peaceful integration with the environment.

Eco-Friendly Funeral Logistics

Eco-friendly burial arrangements go beyond just the choice of caskets or urns.

In the upcoming section, we will explore environmentally conscious options for transportation and the ceremony itself, providing a holistic approach toward organizing an inclusive farewell.

Green Transportation Options

Eco-conscious funeral transportation offers a range of environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional vehicles. A funeral home that specializes in green burials could offer options such as hybrid or electric hearses for the funeral procession.

Additionally, shared transportation services can minimize the number of vehicles on the road, further reducing the environmental impact.

For a more unique touch, sustainable modes of transportation like bicycles or horse-drawn carriages can provide a sense of tranquility and reverence.

Minimal Use of Electricity

In any kind of funeral, a minimal need for electricity can create an atmosphere of simplicity and environmental mindfulness.

The gentle glow of natural light, such as the warm hues of the setting sun, underlines the transition toward the final journey. Even at traditional cemeteries, no-electricity funerals often create a serene and peaceful farewell, evoking a sense of harmony and reconnection with the natural world.

Green Burial Options

There are several burial options with eco-conscious practices. Here are some notable choices:

• Home burials — Deeply personal and intimate, home burials bring a powerful sense of closure and meaning to those left behind. Keep in mind that here we refer to the ceremony, be it a memorial or funeral, and not the actual burial of the body.
• Natural burial grounds and green cemeteries — These serene resting places allow for a harmonious posthumous symbiosis with the natural landscape and a tranquil memorial spot.
• Conservation burial grounds — These special sites are dedicated to the preservation of natural habitats, ensuring that the final resting place supports ongoing conservation efforts. There is a lot of overlap between them and natural burial grounds. The main difference is that conservation grounds use burial fees for nature preservation. Burial grounds that accept biodegradable caskets or shrouds can be considered green, without necessarily promoting wider nature conservation.
• Marine and reef burials — Providing a unique tribute, these burials involve placing the remains in the ocean or within artificial reef structures, fostering the growth of marine life.

Each of these green funeral alternatives offers unique characteristics and environmental benefits.

Resources & Organizations that Promote Green Funerals

For individuals seeking sustainable funeral options, there are valuable resources and organizations dedicated to promoting eco-friendly end-of-life practices.

For the United States:

1. Green Burial Council: Offers certification for green burial providers and education on sustainable funeral practices. https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/
2. Natural End Map: A directory to find green burial providers, natural cemeteries, and funeral directors across the US. https://www.naturalend.com/map.html
3. Funeral Consumers Alliance: Provides information on consumer rights, funeral planning, and how to choose green funeral options. https://funerals.org/
4. The Green Funeral Site: Offers resources and information on planning eco-friendly funerals, including a provider directory. https://www.thegreenfuneralsite.com/

For the United Kingdom:

1. The Natural Death Centre: A charity that provides information on green burials, including a list of natural burial grounds in the UK. https://www.naturaldeath.org.uk/
2. Good Funeral Guide: An independent, not-for-profit information resource that includes guidance on environmentally-friendly funerals. https://www.goodfuneralguide.co.uk/
3. Ecoffins: Provides eco-friendly coffins and caskets made from sustainable materials, available in the UK. https://www.ecoffins.co.uk/

These resources not only inform about the benefits of sustainable funerals but also connect people with providers who specialize in eco-friendly services. They help greatly in making informed decisions for end-of-life and funeral preparations.

Cost of Green Funeral

Cost considerations can play a significant role in any decision-making. Funerals, in general, are expensive.

However, opting for a sustainable approach to end-of-life ceremonies can often lead to potential savings compared to traditional services.

The cost of a green funeral is influenced by several factors, such as the choice of burial or cremation method. Green burials, which typically avoid embalming and utilize biodegradable coffins, are more affordable alternatives.

Our green funeral cost guide to evaluating financial factors will help you explore affordable green funeral options.

Cost Summary: A Price Breakdown

A green funeral can reduce expenses significantly. Thanks to eco-friendly caskets or shrouds, natural burial plots, transportation, eco-friendly cremation services, and the lack of embalming, the total price of the funeral ceremony can be considerably lower than that of a traditional service.

Conclusion

Green funerals unite personal values with powerful symbolism and natural tranquility. But understanding what a green funeral is stretches into many practicalities and considerations.

From eco-friendly materials to alternative burial arrangements, the financial benefits of a green burial also matter, but one should consider the accessibility to natural burial grounds, the mobility of potential attendees, and more.

Hopefully, our guide helped you evaluate the options well.