What is a Green Burial?

 

What is a Green Burial?  

A natural or “green” burial uses biodegradable containers (including caskets, shrouds or a favorite blanket) and avoids embalming fluids and vaults.  The idea is to ensure the burial site remains as natural as possible.  

A green burial is a cremation alternative and alternative to a “traditional” burial.  It is a more earth friendly option.  And, contrary to popular opinion, embalming, sealed caskets and concrete burial vaults are not required by law.  Instead, more traditional memorial parks may require them but a green cemetery or what is sometimes referred to as a memorial nature preserve, does not.  

Many people do not realize that an environmentally friendly burial in the ground is an option.  By using a natural burial, you are helping to preserve open spaces throughout the United States.  A green burial allows nature to take its natural course – reunited our bodies with the earth, for recycling into new life.  You can include native trees, shrubs and flowers to honor your loved one in a way that will promote habitat restoration.  

It is important to conserve our natural landscapes before they disappear as a result of encroaching development.  According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Report, from 1997 to 2001, more than 2.2 million acres were lost to development.  A green burial can reduce environmental impact and help to preserve plants and wildlife, in their natural setting. 

In Florida, your choice for a green burial is Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery, a not for profit organization, located in the heart of North Central Florida near Paynes Prairie State Preserve.  For more information, visit conservationburialinc.org.