Eco-Friendly Farewells: What You Should Know About Green Burials and Sustainable Options
Today, many families are looking for funeral options that reflect their values, including care for the environment. Green burials and other sustainable choices offer a meaningful way to honor a loved one while reducing environmental impact. At Peel Funeral Home, we’re here to help families understand all their options so they can choose the one that feels right.
Below, you’ll find an easy-to-follow guide to what eco-friendly farewells are, how they work, and what to consider when planning one.
What Is a Green Burial?
A green burial is a natural approach to laying a loved one to rest. The goal is to allow the body to return to the earth with minimal environmental impact.
Key features of a green burial include:
- No embalming chemicals
- Biodegradable caskets, shrouds, or containers
- Burial in a natural or green-certified cemetery area
- Minimal use of concrete or metal vaults
Green burials focus on simplicity, sustainability, and honoring nature.
Common Eco-Friendly Funeral Options
Families can choose from several environmentally conscious practices. Here’s a quick summary of popular options:
1. Natural Burial
Burial without embalming, using biodegradable materials.
Why Families Choose It: The Most natural way of returning to the earth.
2. Biodegradable Urns
Urns made from materials like bamboo, sand, salt, or paper.
Why Families Choose It: Eco-friendly and ideal for scattering or burial.
3. Aquamation (Alkaline Hydrolysis*)
A water-based alternative to cremation.
Why Families Choose It: Uses less energy and produces fewer emissions.
4. Eco-Friendly Cremation Practices
Using lower-emission equipment or carbon-offset choices.
Why Families Choose It: Reduces carbon footprint.
5. Green Memorial Items
Seed cards, plantable urns, or sustainable memorial keepsakes.
Why Families Choose It: Meaningful and environmentally responsible.
*Availability varies by state; Peel can help confirm your local options.
Benefits of Choosing a Green Funeral
Families choose eco-friendly funerals for different reasons. Some appreciate the simplicity, while others prefer the environmental impact. Here are a few common benefits:
- Lower environmental footprint
- Simpler, more natural preparation process
- Lower overall cost compared to traditional services
- A peaceful, nature-centered resting place
- A meaningful way to honor personal or family values
For many, green burials provide a comforting sense of harmony with nature.
How Peel Funeral Home Supports Eco-Friendly Choices
At Peel Funeral Home, we guide you through each step, ensuring your chosen options reflect your wishes. Our team can assist with:
- Biodegradable casket & urn selections
- Green burial coordination
- Non-toxic preparation alternatives
- Eco-conscious personalization ideas
- Guidance on local cemetery options
We’re committed to helping families create a farewell that is both meaningful and environmentally responsible.
FAQs About Green Burials and Sustainable Funeral Options
1. Do green burials cost more or less than traditional funerals?
Green burials often cost less because they avoid embalming, metal caskets, and burial vaults. The final cost depends on the specific selections you make.
2. Is embalming required by law?
No. Embalming is rarely required. Green burials skip this process entirely.
3. Are biodegradable caskets strong enough?
Yes. These caskets are designed specifically for natural burial and meet cemetery requirements where allowed.
4. Can I still have a viewing?
Yes. Families can choose a natural preparation method and a simple viewing setup if they’d like.
5. Are green cemeteries available in my area?
Availability varies by region. Peel Funeral Home can help you find out what options are nearby or suggest sustainable alternatives if green-certified areas are limited.
Final Thoughts
Eco-friendly funerals give families the opportunity to say goodbye in a way that honors both their loved one and the environment. Whether you’re looking for a simple green burial or a small sustainable touch, Peel Funeral Home is here to guide you with clarity and compassion.
