Go Green In Death?

As society changes, so do beliefs, ideas and wishes concerning the end of life. Funerals today are taking on different themes for many as the traditional is becoming not so common anymore. There are a number of new alternatives, one of which is an eco-friendly choice - green funerals.

As each day passes, there is a greater interest in alternatives to the traditional types of funeral service options. In society today, religious views have changed, along with family structures and beliefs. The traditional funeral services are growing few and far between. Cremation rates have risen significantly in recent years, again due to changing views, convenience factors and costs. Another choice that is gaining ground is the eco-friendly option, known today as green burials. In many ways, cremation could be considered the first eco-friendly choice. For those who still want a connection with the physical body, however, there are green choices available.

The green burial movement actually began in the United Kingdom in 1993. The concept eventually made its way to the United States, first as only the idea. Today, there are a number of funeral homes that have worked to create eco-friendly options. In fact, there are currently ten cemeteries dedicated to green burials across the country. Utah, Washington, Texas, South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Maine, Georgia, Florida and California all offer these particular cemeteries.

There are a great number of ways to design a green funeral. Rather than inviting friends and family to a funeral home, a gathering could be held in a more natural setting. Many individuals like the idea of choosing an outdoor, natural setting. If memorial folders or a guest book is desired, one might consider choosing items made of recycled paper. Typically, the deceased would not be embalmed. This would avoid the use of harsh chemicals or otherwise toxic products. The remains could be placed in either bio-degradable clothing or a similar shroud. If a casket is desired, there are eco-friendly options void of any hardware and made of bio-degradable material. Instead of traditional headstones, natural rocks or plants could be used. For cremated remains, one may either choose a bio-degradable urn, or one might consider not using an urn at all. While funeral costs tend to increase each year, the green burial option currently offers choices that are far less expensive than more traditional options.

Copyright © 2009 James Patton Funeral Director