Woodland Burials, Green Burials & Natural Burials
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Green Funeral
All funerals have an environmental impact to a greater or lesser extent. However, there may be choices you can make to personalise the funeral in order to take account of environmental factors. Choosing an environmentally-friendly ‘green’ funeral has several significant benefits. Here are some reasons why people may opt for such a funeral:
Reducing Environmental Impact
Green funerals prioritise minimising the impact on the environment. Traditional funerals often involve embalming fluid, non-biodegradable caskets, and the use of land for burial plots. Green funerals, on the other hand, focus on eco-friendly practices like natural burial, using biodegradable materials, and minimising chemical use. By choosing a green funeral, you can help preserve natural resources and reduce pollution.
Conservation of Natural Resources
Green funerals promote the conservation of natural resources such as wood, metal, and concrete. Green funerals encourage the use of biodegradable options like wicker, bamboo, or sustainably sourced wood, helping protect forests and reducing the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transporting traditional caskets.
Protecting Land and Wildlife
Traditional burial practices often require designated land for cemeteries. Opting for a green funeral can involve natural or conservation burial, where the deceased is buried in a designated natural area or nature reserve. This approach not only helps protect valuable land but also supports wildlife habitats and biodiversity.
Avoiding Harmful Chemicals
Embalming fluids used in traditional funerals contain chemicals which can be harmful to the environment when they seep into the soil or water systems. Green funerals eliminate the use of embalming fluids, reducing the release of these harmful chemicals into the environment.
Honouring Personal Values
Many people have a deep connection with nature and wish to align their end-of-life practices with their environmental values. Choosing a green funeral provides a meaningful and respectful way to celebrate a person's life while demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility.
Setting an Example
Opting for an environmentally-friendly green funeral can inspire others to consider sustainable options for end-of-life ceremonies. By choosing a green funeral, you contribute to raising awareness about the importance of conservation and environmentally conscious choices, potentially encouraging others to follow suit.
Personal Reflection and Connection
Green funerals often emphasise a more natural and intimate approach. They can involve personalised rituals, ceremonies, or vigils held outdoors, allowing individuals to connect with nature, find solace in serene settings, and reflect on the cycle of life.
Choosing an environmentally-friendly green funeral allows individuals to leave a positive legacy by actively caring for the environment and promoting sustainable practices during one's final journey.
What to expect at a woodland burial
Some woodland burial grounds have onsite service rooms that can be used before or after the burial for a service that is created to reflect your wishes and those of the deceased. At burial grounds that do not have these facilities the service takes place at the graveside. Flowers can be placed on the grave, as long as they are not wrapped in cellophane or tied with synthetic material. Woodland burial graves are not marked with a headstone, instead a tree or flowers are planted that over time blend into the woodland. Some sites offer a memorial tree that can be planted to mark your loved one’s resting place. If you would like to discuss arranging a woodland burial, your local branch of Mears Family Funerals can help you find a local natural burial ground and help you arrange a greener goodbye for your loved one.
