Green funerals (also known as natural burials or woodland burials) are a fairly new concept with a growing number of people choosing to have them.
Green funerals are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burials and cremations. They do not include cremation or embalming and are considered the most environmentally friendly funeral option.
The coffin is biodegradable, usually made out of recycled paper, wicker or willow, and is buried in a green burial site.
The graves are not marked with a headstone; instead they will be identified by a tree or flowers and often become indistinguishable from the woodland. Many of these green burial sites also have a map, so that the bereaved may visit the site of their loved one. Some sites do not have maps to individual graves, but the bereaved may consider the whole woodland as a memorial to their loved one.
If you would prefer to visit the exact location of your loved one’s final resting place, you may want to carefully consider if a green burial is the right choice for you and your family.
Eco-friendly
The key selling point for green burials is that they are more eco-friendly than other funerals, such as traditional burial or cremation.
Supporters of the method claim that traditional burials restrict the rate of decomposition and therefore the surrounding areas do not benefit from nutrients and minerals, as would happen in more natural circumstances.
Green burial sites are often unrecognisable compared to traditional cemeteries, as they are intended to look as close to a natural landscape as possible.
Eco-coffins
Eco coffins used in green burials are designed to easily decompose and environmentally friendly. They are usually made from:
- Cardboard
- Banana leaf
- Wicker
- Bamboo
- Willow
You can also use a cotton shroud, but you are advised to discuss these needs with your funeral director.
Arranging a green funeral
If you want to arrange a green funeral for your loved one, you should talk to your funeral director about your preferences. They will be able to advise you on the green burial options available in your local area. Some funeral directors even specialise in providing eco-friendly funerals.
About eziFunerals
eziFunerals supports individuals and families cope with end of life decisions, death and funerals. We are an independent, Australian-owned and operated company. We are not part of any other funeral company.
Our member Funeral Directors operate in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Australia wide. Thet are chosen for their knowledge, quality, service, personalisation and experience. They go above and beyond, and will take the time to support the family.
For more information or to make contact with a trusted Independent funeral director, call eziFunerals on 1300 236 402 or visit www.ezifunerals.com.au.
Peter Erceg
Peter Erceg is the Owner and Founder of eziFunerals. He has had a long history within the funeral industry, and is a published author of ‘What Kind Of Funeral: A self help guide to planning a meaningful funeral’. Prior to eziFunerals, Peter worked in the public sector and health industry for more than 30 years. The views and opinions expressed on posts are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of eziFunerals and members.
