Introduction
Green burial is an environmentally friendly way to perform a burial. Instead of traditional concrete coffins, it involves using biodegradable materials, such as wood, wicker, or bamboo. This burial method is often used in natural burial grounds, where the deceased is buried directly in the ground without a coffin.
At Morgan Oaks we have provided some insight and knowledge on what are the different burial types there are out there regardless of preference, liking or budget. Here are some of the understandings of burial options that we provide and can provide knowledge of.
1. Shrouds or simple pine boxes
Shrouds are made from natural materials, such as cotton or linen, covering the body entirely. The shroud is then tied around the body with a rope or strap. Some shrouds have a simple design, while others are more elaborate.
Pine boxes are simple wooden boxes that are used to bury the body. They are made from pine wood, a softwood type that is easy to work with. Pine boxes are often used in green burials because they are biodegradable and can be buried directly in the ground.
2. Caskets made from sustainable materials
Many different types of caskets can be used for green burials. Caskets can be made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo, wicker, or wool. They can also be made from recycled materials like cardboard or newspaper.
3. Wicker caskets
They are made from natural materials, such as bamboo, willow, or rush, and they are biodegradable. Wicker caskets are often used in place of traditional wooden coffins, which can be difficult to recycle or compost.
Wicker caskets are also popular for funerals because they are lightweight and easy to transport. They can also be with engravings or decorations.
4. Bamboo caskets
They are made from bamboo, a sustainable, biodegradable material. Bamboo caskets are often used in place of traditional wooden coffins, which can be difficult to recycle or compost. When choosing a bamboo casket, selecting one made from sustainably grown bamboo is important.
5. Cardboard caskets
Cardboard caskets are becoming one of the more popular choices for green burials. They are made from recycled cardboard, a sustainable and biodegradable material. Cardboard caskets are often used in place of traditional wooden coffins, which can be difficult to recycle or compost.
When choosing a cardboard casket, selecting one made from recycled material is important. Cardboard caskets can also be decorated with pictures or words by family and friends.
6. Tree urns
Tree urns have become a well-liked choice for green burials in the past decade. They are made from biodegradable materials, such as bamboo or paper pulp. Tree urns are often used in place of traditional urns, made from materials that are not biodegradable.
Tree urns can be planted with tree seedlings. When the tree grows, it will absorb the nutrients from the urn and the ashes of the person who was buried.
7. Mushroom suits
They fall into the green burials category. They are made from biodegradable materials, such as straw or cotton. Mushroom suits are often used in place of traditional coffins, which can be difficult to recycle or compost.
Mushroom suits are also popular for funerals because they are lightweight and easy to transport. They can also be with engravings or decorations.
8. Bio urns
They are made from biodegradable materials, such as bamboo or paper pulp. Bio urns are often used in place of traditional urns, made from materials that are not biodegradable
There are many benefits of green burial, including the following:
1. Environmentally friendly
Green burial is environmentally friendly because it uses no chemicals or artificial materials. All the materials used in a green burial are biodegradable. It eliminates the use of hazardous chemicals, such as formaldehyde, which is used in the embalming process. It prevents these toxic chemicals from embalming or casket degradation from contaminating the earth.
These sites often preserve or restore the natural landscape, which offers food to wildlife and other refuge. This can be important in the restoration and preservation of native habitats. Green burials also have less of an impact on the earth because of the materials used.
2. Sustainable
Green burial while simple and natural, it emphasizes environmental sustainability. Allowing the body to return to the earth naturally back to nature. The body can decompose naturally back into the soil. Which then wastes less energy and emits less carbon into the atmosphere.
3. Affordable
Green burials do not involve embalming, caskets, or concrete vaults, which means they are a very cost-effective alternative to traditional burials. This lowers the cost to the families by thousands of dollars.
4. Simple
Simplicity is a huge benefit in green burial. There’s no need for additional add-ons or other requirements for the burial which in turn makes it a simple return to the earth. For someone who prefers something simple and natural, green burial is a great option. This simplicity also creates a spiritual significance for many people because of the natural return to the earth.
Conclusion
Green burials are a sustainable and affordable alternative to traditional funerals. At Morgan Oaks, our team has the knowledge and expertise to help guide and plan a green burial service. At Morgan Oaks, we are deeply committed to the long-term preservation and stewardship of the land and offer a wide variety of beautiful, park-like settings as burial options. By choosing a green burial for you or your loved one, you’ll be creating a living legacy.
