Passages US Catalog - Catalog - Page 4
WHAT IS A GREENER FUNERAL?
A greener funeral, also known as a “natural funeral” or “eco-funeral,” is any end-of-life ritual that is as harmless
as possible to the environment. The essence of a greener funeral is a reduction in environmental impact.
GREEN OR NATURAL BURIAL
This is probably the greenest option when it comes to greening your funeral. Burial
typically occurs in a hand-dug grave at a green cemetery, using a shroud or
eco-friendly casket crafted from wicker or similar sustainable material, and does not
include the use of a vault. The body is not embalmed and will return to the earth
naturally over time, along with the shroud or casket. This alternative to traditional
burial also encourages family participation and is often more healing and
meaningful for mourners.
CREMATION – USING FEWER RESOURCES
For many years, cremation has been the most common alternative to the traditional funeral.
Cremation uses far fewer resources than conventional burial, but it does have an environmental impact. Families choosing cremation can take additional steps to make the process more eco-friendly, beginning with the use of shrouds or cleaner burning
eco-friendly caskets. Cremation also allows for the recycling of medical implants.
Most cemeteries provide a variety of options for cremated remains, including interment in ground spaces, columbaria
(above-ground niches) or special gardens for the scattering of the remains.These are also greener options, because they use less space.
NEW OPTIONS - A LIGHTER FOOTPRINT
Cremated remains may be placed in urns made from materials that break
down naturally, or specially-designed and recyclable
scattering tubes that facilitate a clean and easy scattering. For those selecting
water burial there are salt, gelatin and other biodegradable urns designed to
float briefly, and then biodegrade within hours or days. By using an urn that
can be placed directly into the water, a more dignified memorial experience
can be achieved.
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
PLEASE VISIT WWW.AGREENERFUNERAL.ORG
