Articles Of Interest
What is a Green Burial?
More people today are exploring green burial options, a more environmentally friendly process for funerals. Some people prefer not to use embalming fluids, which can be harmful to the environment, if not handled properly. Also, caskets are traditionally placed within a grave liner or concrete vault to slow the decomposition process.
Like many other industries, funeral homes can now fulfill growing requests to be environmentally friendly. Funeral offerings can be eco-friendly in a process called green (or natural) burial. Before a green burial, a body is not embalmed using chemicals, but is preserved with refrigeration instead. When it is time for the burial, the body is then wrapped in a biodegradable wrap, or shroud, or placed inside a casket constructed of biodegradable materials.
If you are interested in a green burial, you will need to work with your funeral director to find a cemetery that accepts natural burials. As the body and other materials decompose, the gravesite will sink and need to be refilled. Because of this extra labor, most cemeteries require vaults or grave liners. There are, however, some graveyards in the local area who do not require vaults, like the Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery in Lancaster.
If a green burial is something you desire as your final disposition, please talk with any of our experienced funeral directors at Buch Funeral Home. They will guide you through the process of planning for a green burial and answer any questions along the way.
Learn more by visit the Green Burial Council website.
