Funerals Explained: Green Burials and Woodland Funerals

In this short series, Funerals Explained, we look at Green Burials and Woodland Funerals. This type of funeral service is more commonplace as people are considering the environment more and more.

A common misconception we come across daily is that funerals are rigid. The belief is that is must be either a graveyard burial or a cremation. There are not the only options at all. Green and woodland funerals have started to increase in popularity. That said, a lot of people as still either unsure of how to request one or haven’t heard of them at all. This guide to green and woodland funerals will explain the process.

Kinder To the Environment

The draw of green funerals is that they are better for the world around us. A lot of people feel drawn to return to the earth in a more natural way. A green funeral will use a biodegradable casket that has no chemical lacquers. They will usually be manufactured in bamboo, wicker or recycled paper. Some people use a cotton shroud rather than any form of a coffin. The overarching aim is to minimise damage to soil, trees or grass. Most green burial sites are in woodland. Many plant trees over and around the site so that over time there is no visible grave. The body cannot be embalmed and would need to be dressed in biodegradable clothing only. Trainers, shoes, jewellery, etc. would not be considered appropriate.

No Markers

One thing that some families find upsetting is that there are no markers. It would not fit the green idea to mark the grave with concrete or marble headstones. Some sites will allow a smaller marker, some mark the nearest tree; others have nothing at all. In some sites purchasing a tree as the marker is an option. The tree would then offer a visual marker. Be sure that you understand what the site allows before you make plans. If you are happy for the loved one to return to the earth rather than have a marked stone, this could be ideal. Some green burial sites also allow ashes to be buried. Again the urn would need to be biodegradable for this to happen.

Location, Location, Location

Green burials and woodland funerals have gained in popularity. This means that there is likely to be a site near you. Some people want the body buried on their own land. In certain circumstances that would also be an acceptable option. Farmers, or others that have worked the land all their lives often favour this option. They choose an area that will disappear and return to the original field or woodland. The rules on burial state that you must own the land. You must be 50 meters from drinking water sources. It must be 10 meters from standing water sources and deep enough to ensure foxes won’t find it. You must then record the accurate location and submit this to the deeds of the property in question.

The Funeral Service

Green burials would usually feature an onsite service. There would be nothing to stop the family having a traditional church service, but it is less frequent. The appeal of the eco-funeral tends to see the family choosing an onsite ceremony. There does not have to be a religious leader or celebrant at the service. That of course is true of all funerals. Although a church service would likely have an ordained leader. In a green burial, the family can conduct any service themselves. Many green funeral plots offer a humanist celebrant. Others have a Wiccan style funeral celebrant. The choice, of course, falls to the family so never feel pressured to decide. You can still offer a eulogy, sing, or play music provided the facilities allow it.

Green Burials Costs

The cost of an eco-friendly funeral tends to be cheaper than the more traditional options. There are no specific permits needed, as long as the funeral site meets the criteria above. Bio-degradable caskets will cost less than some more conventional coffin options. There will be no crematorium fees. The green funeral site will charge for your plot. Often this is less than a graveyard, as the land returns to natural woodland in the years that follow. You may still work with a funeral director to facilitate the process. Some sites offer the whole package. Many green funerals can now be purchased as a funeral plan in a similar format to other traditional pre-paid funeral plans. This gives you a chance to select your own coffin and make your own arrangements. These can also be left as instructions in a will although remember that the will is not always consulted before the funeral. Be sure to make someone aware that you have done this.

Bespoke Designs

Fitting Farewell have created many funeral order of service or memorial cards with a nature theme. We work directly with families and also funeral directors. We have the expertise and skills to create the funeral order of service you want for your loved one. We can create a bespoke design, print and deliver within 3 working days.

Call us on 0800 612 6484, which is free from a landline, or email us via our contact form.