Green Burial Guide: Eco-Friendly End-of-Life Options
Explore environmentally friendly burial options including natural burial, biodegradable caskets, and conservation cemeteries.
Planning in the United States2 min read
Green Burial Guide: Eco-Friendly End-of-Life Options
Green burial is a growing movement that offers an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional funeral practices. This guide covers what green burial means, how it works, and where to find providers.
What Is Green Burial?
Green burial, also called natural burial, aims to minimize the environmental impact of death care. Key principles include:
No embalming chemicals - Avoiding formaldehyde-based fluids
Biodegradable containers - Using wood, wicker, cardboard, or shrouds instead of metal caskets
No burial vault - Allowing the body to return naturally to the earth
Natural landscaping - Using native plants instead of manicured lawns
Conservation - Some cemeteries protect natural habitats in perpetuity
Types of Green Burial
1. Hybrid Burial
A conventional cemetery that allows green practices (no vault, biodegradable casket). This is the most widely available option.
2. Natural Burial Ground
A dedicated green cemetery with specific standards. The body is buried without chemicals, in a biodegradable container, at a depth that allows natural decomposition.
3. Conservation Cemetery
The highest standard of green burial. These cemeteries are part of a conservation plan that permanently protects the land as a nature preserve.
Cost Comparison
Green burial is often less expensive than conventional burial:
Option
Typical Cost
Green burial (total)
$1,000 - $4,000
Conventional burial (total)
$7,000 - $15,000+
Biodegradable casket
$200 - $2,000
Metal casket
$2,000 - $10,000
Natural burial plot
$500 - $2,000
Conventional plot + vault
$2,000 - $6,000
Environmental Benefits
Eliminates 4.3 million gallons of embalming fluid annually
Avoids burying 20 million board feet of hardwood and 1.6 million tons of concrete
Preserves green space and natural habitats
Reduces carbon emissions from cremation
Supports native plant and wildlife communities
How to Find Green Burial Options
Search for "green burial" or "natural burial" providers in your area
Contact the Green Burial Council (greenburialcouncil.org) for certified providers
Ask local funeral homes if they offer green burial options