Natural burial options have become more and more popular in recent years, and the trend is likely to continue into the foreseeable future as concern for preserving the environment grows. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions out there about green burials, so allow us to clear up some of the most common myths about green burial for you. Read on for everything you need to know.
Myth 1: Green Burial is Illegal
While it is true that some cemeteries do not allow natural burials, the truth of the matter is that there are relatively few laws with regards to burials at all. There is a big difference between something being against the law and merely against the policies of a particular cemetery. If the cemetery near you doesn’t permit green burials, you still have other options available to you, so don’t give up your search after just one cemetery.
Myth 2: Embalming Is Necessary
Many people mistakenly believe that a body must be embalmed in order to be buried, but this is not true at all. Many funeral directors push people into embalming by advising that it is the best way to ensure the body looks”good” during the viewing. However, it is not a requirement for a burial. In fact, embalming releases harmful chemicals into the environment, both during the process and as the body decomposes. Embalming is not a part of a natural burial.
Myth 3: The Remains Can Contaminate the Groundwater
There are regulations that govern how closely bodies can be buried to water supplies, and this leads many people to believe that the concern is with the bodies themselves. However, it is actually many of the items that are buried along with the body that poses the greatest threat. The materials used to make the coffin, the embalming chemicals, items placed inside the coffin and the construction of the grave itself are all more dangerous to the water supply than the actual body, which poses minimal risk. Of course, it is still important to bury the body far enough away from the groundwater supply, but in order to comply with regulations, not because the body itself is dangerous.
Myth 4: Animals Will Dig Up the Body
This is a common concern for those who are unfamiliar with the concept of green burial. However, there is no need to worry. There has never been are ported instance of animals digging up a naturally buried body. Regulations require that human remains be buried so that there are at least two feet of soil between the body and the surface of the ground. This serves as a scent barrier, blocking any odors that might attract scavenging animals.
Myth 5: Green Burial Is Expensive
It comes as a surprise to many people that natural burials tend to be far less costly than traditional burial services. By eliminating the embalming component, you can save a lot of money. Many green burials also wrap the remains in a cotton shroud, rather than burying them in a coffin, adding to the savings. Cemetery fees at green burial sites are often more affordable as well.
Get in touch with us at Milton Fields today to learn more about our green burial options in Atlanta.