Natural cemeteries, sometimes called green burial grounds, are gaining popularity as people look for more environmentally friendly ways to honor and remember their loved ones. Unlike traditional cemeteries, natural cemeteries focus on simplicity, conservation, and a return to nature. Here are the top ten facts you should know about natural cemeteries, written to help high school students understand this important topic.
1. What Is a Natural Cemetery?
A natural cemetery is a burial ground where people are laid to rest using methods that minimize environmental impact. The goal is to allow the body to return to the earth naturally, without chemicals or non-biodegradable materials. Graves are often marked with simple stones, native plants, or sometimes left unmarked to preserve the landscape.
2. Eco-Friendly Burial Practices
• No Embalming: Most natural cemeteries do not allow embalming fluids, which contain toxic chemicals that can pollute the soil and groundwater.
• Biodegradable Caskets: Only caskets made from natural materials like wood, wicker, or cardboard are permitted, and sometimes shrouds are used instead.
• No Concrete Vaults: The use of concrete or metal burial vaults is usually prohibited, helping to reduce resource use and allow the body to decompose naturally.
3. Conservation and Wildlife Protection
Many natural cemeteries are located in protected areas, such as forests or grasslands. By using the land for burials, cemetery operators often help to preserve habitats for native plants and animals. This approach can create a living memorial, where the burial grounds contribute to conservation efforts.
4. Less Environmental Impact
Traditional burial practices can leave a large environmental footprint. Chemicals, non-biodegradable caskets, and manicured lawns all require resources and maintenance. Natural cemeteries avoid these practices, helping to reduce pollution, greenhouse gases, and energy use.
5. A Simple and Personal Farewell
Funerals at natural cemeteries tend to be simpler and more personal. Families can often participate directly in the burial, and ceremonies may take place outdoors, surrounded by trees and wildlife. This simplicity can make the experience more meaningful and connected to nature. At Milton Fields, we are happy to help you decide how to honor your loved one through eco-friendly actions.
6. Cost Differences
Natural burials are often less expensive than traditional burials. By skipping embalming, elaborate caskets, vaults, and expensive grave markers, families can save money while still honoring their loved ones respectfully. However, costs can vary depending on the cemetery and location. Talk to us to learn more.
7. Natural Cemeteries and Legal Requirements
Some laws regulate burials, and natural cemeteries must follow these rules to operate legally. These regulations can include land use, burial depth, and record keeping. Families need to check local requirements before choosing a natural cemetery.
8. Memorialization Options
Instead of granite headstones and monuments, natural cemeteries often use native plants, simple wooden markers, or GPS coordinates to remember the burial site. Some cemeteries encourage planting a tree or a wildflower as a living tribute.
9. Growing Popularity of Natural Cemeteries
Interest in natural cemeteries is increasing as people become more aware of environmental issues. Many families are choosing green burials because they align with their values and offer a peaceful, natural setting for remembrance. The movement is part of a larger trend toward sustainable living.
10. How to Find a Natural Cemetery
If you are interested in learning more or visiting a natural cemetery, there are resources online and in your community. Environmental organizations often provide lists of certified green burial sites, and local funeral homes may be able to help you find natural cemetery options nearby.
Natural cemeteries provide a way to honor loved ones while protecting the environment. By choosing eco-friendly burial practices, families can make a positive impact and create lasting memories in beautiful, natural settings. As more people learn about the benefits, natural cemeteries are likely to become even more common in the future. The team at Milton Fields is happy to help you make the often difficult decisions regarding end of life- whether you are pre-planning your memorial or planning a service for a loved one.
Additional Resources on Natural Cemeteries
Quick Guide to Natural Cemeteries
Green Burial Cemeteries in the US and Canada