Key Takeaways:
- Natural burial aligns with eco-friendly values.
- It fosters a stronger connection to nature.
- There are many advantages to having a natural funeral.
- Natural burial is an option that is growing in popularity globally.
What is Natural Burial?
Natural burial is less harmful to the environment than typical burial techniques since it allows for natural decay. It is typically conducted in natural settings like meadows or forests, enhancing the deceased’s connection to the earth. Natural burial services cater to individuals seeking a more environmentally conscious end-of-life deceased. This end-of-life death method prioritizes simplicity and sustainability, reflecting an individual’s or family’s dedication to ecocentric values. It provides a gentle way of returning to the earth.
Benefits of Natural Burial
Natural burials have several benefits including a minimal environmental footprint due to the absence of embalming chemicals, cost-effectiveness due to fewer materials and more straightforward services and a serene and picturesque setting in protected natural areas. These burials allow the body to decompose organically surrounding flora and fauna and provide a peaceful and scenic place for family and friends to visit.
Environmental Impact
Natural burials have a lower environmental impact than conventional ones, eliminating the need for metal or concrete vaults. Traditional burials in the U.S. use over 30 million board feet of hardwood and 827,060 gallons of embalming fluid annually which can cause long-term environmental issues. Opting for natural burials helps conserve resources and minimize pollution. They also support biodiversity by turning burial sites into habitats for wildlife and preventing land use for destructive purposes, making it a final act of environmental stewardship.
Cultural and Emotional Aspects
Natural burials offer peace and continuity by honoring the natural cycle of life and death. The British government acknowledges their cultural significance and aligns with traditional practices. Natural burials resonate with spiritual or religious values, promoting harmony with nature. Families find comfort in this method’s simplicity and purity, which foster a deeper connection and contribute to healing. The natural setting provides a more meaningful and tranquil place for mourning and memory than traditional cemeteries.
How to Plan a Natural Burial
A natural burial involves selecting a site approved for burials, often featuring greenery and wildlife. The next step is choosing a biodegradable burial container ranging from a wooden casket to a fabric shroud. Some families choose containers that reflect the deceased’s personality or preferences. Discussing these plans with loved ones ensures everyone agrees and respects the final wishes. Legal documentation can outline these wishes. Resources like the Natural Burial Map can help locate suitable sites and provide more information on the process.
Common Questions
Is Natural Burial Legal?
Natural burials are legal in many places though local regulations may vary. Contacting the appropriate authorities is crucial for confirming adherence to local laws. Some regions have designated natural burial sites, while others may have more flexible rules that allow natural burial on private land, subject to certain conditions.
What Materials Are Used in Natural Burial?
Natural burials use biodegradable materials like simple wooden caskets, shrouds made of natural fibers, and no embalming fluids. The focus is on using materials that can break down naturally without leaving harmful residues. By encouraging the growth of plant life and maintaining the soil’s health, these materials ensure that the body returns to the ground in the most organic way possible.
Can Anyone Choose a Natural Burial?
Anyone can generally choose a natural burial, but it’s best to discuss this with family and possibly legal advisors to ensure all wishes are documented and followed. Declaring one’s desires in advance, such as in a will or a separate document, can help ensure that the natural burial is carried out without complications. Funeral directors and advisors specializing in green burials can also provide valuable guidance.
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