Cremation or Burial: Which Is Better For The Environment?

There are a lot of considerations that need to be explored at the end of one’s life. You might be planning for the end of your own life; or you might be in charge of someone else’s arrangements. While there will be a lot to think about and discuss; there is one big decision you will need to make upfront… cremation or burial?

Is one better than the other for the environment? Read on and we’ll walk you through what you need to know; so that you can make a more informed decision.

Couple with mortuary urn and flowers at cremation or burial

Cremation Or Burial?

You may have to weigh the pros and cons of the options for yourself; to decide which would suit you best. Cremations have become a lot more popular in recent years. Many more people have become comfortable with the idea of cremation; and want to take advantage of some of the benefits it provides.

Dealing with the aftermath of a death isn’t easy; and trying to weigh up the responsible options for the planet at large, can make things even more complex. When it comes to cremations and burials, is one way clearly more environmentally friendly than the other?

The unfortunate truth of the matter is that both options have some negative side effects. Cremation requires a lot of natural gas and produces a lot of excess CO². The burning of dental fillings within the cremated remains can also pollute the atmosphere with mercury when the body is cremated.

Traditional burial isn’t without its environmental side effects either. Formaldehyde used in embalming can leak into the soil after a burial; and the material used in most coffins can eventually negatively impact the land around it. Even the creation of coffins, tombstones, and the like requires a lot of energy and waste.

Environmentally Friendly Options

A cardboard, willow or wicker basket casket are the most eco friendly options possible. A natural or woodland burial (as opposed to a traditional funeral service) can help the decomposition process go faster.

Family members in this situation would need to forgo the embalming process and choose a natural coffin; so that no formaldehyde would be released into the soil. This is in the best interest of the land and the groundwater supply; in the area where a person is to be buried.

Compared to the other available options, our natural willow coffin is by far the most environmentally friendly choice; as it contains no board, glue and metal fixings, just pure woody goodness. Ideally suited whether you choose cremation or natural burial.

Other Considerations

If you are still weighing the pros and cons between burial and cremation as part of your memorial service, there are other factors to think about. Price plays a big part in the decision for many families; as cremation is often much cheaper of a process than burials.

How you and your family wants the memorial process to go; can also play a big role in which choice you should go with. It is important to consider what kind of ceremony you hope to have; as your choice might impact how things will play out.

Burial, Cremation, and The Environment

Deciding between cremation or burial can be a tricky choice for just about anyone. If you are worried about the impact of these acts on the environment; the above information should help you come to a more informed decision.

Interested in an environmentally friendly burial? Reach out to us with any questions you may have, we are happy to be of service.

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