What Exactly Is Green Burial
Green burial places a strong emphasis on simplicity and environmental sustainability. The body is not cremated or embalmed. It is simply buried without a concrete vault, in a biodegradable coffin. The goal is for the body to completely decompose and return to the soil. Only then can a burial truly be "ashes to ashes, dust to dust," as the popular phrase goes. Before the mid-nineteenth century, most burials were conducted in this manner, as are many Jewish and Muslim burials today. If you are considering it, you should look into funeral homes in Norwood, OH.
Why Go for Green Burial
Green burials are gaining popularity for a variety of reasons, including:
Simplicity
Wrapping the body in a shroud or placing it in a plain, unadorned coffin appeals to those who prefer a simple, natural, and unpretentious burial arrangement.
Natural resource conservation
Every year, over 30 million board feet of hardwood and 90,000 tons of steel are buried in caskets, 17,000 tons of steel and copper are buried in vaults, and 1.6 million tons of reinforced concrete are buried in vaults in the United States. Fewer resources are used in green burial.
Getting rid of dangerous chemicals
Some people prefer not to embalm because embalming fluid contains formaldehyde, a respiratory irritant, and a known carcinogen. Every year, approximately 5.3 million gallons of embalming fluid are used in the United States, and funeral home workers are routinely exposed to it.
Nature conservation
Green burial is frequently cited as a result of a desire for "eternal rest" in a forever-wild meadow or forest. The burial grounds restore or preserve a natural landscape populated by native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers; the grounds provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife. The most environmentally conscious green cemeteries do not use fertilizer, pesticides, or herbicides. A green cemetery can help with the acquisition and conservation of native habitats.
Cost reductions
Green burials, which do not require embalming, fancy caskets, or concrete vaults, can be a very cost-effective alternative to traditional burials, saving thousands of dollars. The cost can be reduced further if the family provides their shroud or coffin. The funeral director is required by law to accept any appropriate container you provide free of charge. Most green cemeteries would accept homemade or store-bought caskets made of plain wood, cardboard, or wicker. Instead of a casket, wrap your loved one in a favorite blanket or quilt, preferably one made of natural materials like cotton or wool. If you have the time, you could sew your shroud or find a seamstress to make one for you at a reasonable price.
Don't fall for marketing ploys that appeal to your conscience while increasing the cost of a simpler send-off, causing you to spend more to get less. Choosing a green burial allows you to refuse unnecessary services and merchandise; and whether it's marketed as "green" or not, this type of burial is more environmentally friendly and less expensive. Remember, our forefathers simply called these practices "burial."
To access more information about green burial and funeral homes in Norwood, OH, please contact our team to find out more about what we have to offer. We are ready to assist you with any decisions you need to make. You can contact us right away or come in to see us.
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