This page explains green (natural) burial on its own. To weigh it against cremation, see Green burial vs. cremation.
What is a green burial?
Green burial, also called natural burial, is a way of caring for the dead that aims to lower the environmental impact of conventional burial.
Exact standards vary. Common elements include:
- no conventional embalming;
- a biodegradable burial container or shroud;
- less concrete and other permanent materials;
- burial grounds managed with ecological goals;
- landscaping and memorials kept fairly natural.
The Green Burial Council is one of the main organizations that sets standards and certifies green burial cemeteries and providers.
After.com also has a helpful introduction for families: Is Green Burial Right for You?.
Is green burial the same as "no funeral"?
No.
A green burial can include a funeral, a religious service, a graveside ceremony, a visitation, flowers, music or a family gathering.
What changes is mainly how the body is cared for and buried. You still get to say goodbye.
What makes a burial green?
A burial is generally seen as greener when it avoids or cuts back on materials and practices that natural decomposition doesn't need.
A particular cemetery may require:
- no conventional embalming;
- a biodegradable shroud;
- a natural wood or plant-fiber casket;
- no concrete vault;
- native or low-impact landscaping;
- a natural memorial marker.
Each cemetery's own rules matter as much as the general definition.
Does green burial mean no embalming?
Usually. A true natural-burial program avoids conventional embalming. The aim is to let the body decompose naturally and to keep embalming chemicals out of the ground.
But don't assume every provider that uses the word "green" follows the same standard.
Ask the cemetery exactly what it allows.
Do you need a casket?
Not necessarily.
A green cemetery may allow a shroud or a simple biodegradable container.
Some cemeteries set their own minimum standards. So the right answer is always:
Ask the cemetery before you buy the container.
Can you have a green burial on private property?
That depends heavily on where you are.
A state may regulate cemeteries, burial grounds, permits, health conditions, and minimum distances from water or property lines. Local zoning can add another layer.
Check the HonestFarewell state law page for your state. "Green burial is legal in the state" doesn't mean "I can bury someone in my backyard."
How much does green burial cost?
There's no single national price.
Green burial can cut some conventional funeral costs. Your family may still pay for:
- transport;
- cemetery property;
- opening and closing the grave;
- grave preparation;
- permit fees;
- a biodegradable container or shroud;
- a memorial service;
- cemetery upkeep.
In some areas, a green burial can cost less than a traditional burial. In others, space in a certified natural cemetery is scarce and can cost more.
The number that matters is the one on the cemetery's written price list.
Is cremation greener than burial?
It depends on what you compare.
Conventional burial, green burial, flame cremation, water cremation and natural organic reduction each use different resources and affect the environment in different ways.
There's no honest way to name one winner for everyone.
Compare these instead:
- energy use;
- transport;
- materials;
- land;
- embalming;
- cemetery upkeep;
- what happens to the remains afterward.
What should I ask a green cemetery?
Ask:
- Is the cemetery certified by an independent organization?
- Is embalming allowed?
- Are vaults required?
- What containers do you accept?
- Can I use a shroud?
- What memorial markers are allowed?
- What happens to the land after burial?
- What is the complete burial price?
- Can the family take part in the burial?
- What local permits or restrictions apply?
Frequently asked questions
Is green burial legal in the United States?
Yes. Green burial is practiced in many parts of the United States, but where it's offered and the exact legal requirements vary by state and cemetery.
Is a green burial cheaper?
Sometimes. Skipping embalming, expensive caskets, vaults and elaborate landscaping can lower costs. Cemetery and land costs still matter.
Can I be buried without a casket?
Some cemeteries allow a burial shroud or another approved container. Each cemetery's rules decide what it accepts.
Does green burial mean the body decomposes naturally?
Natural burial is meant to let the body decompose more naturally. The exact conditions depend on the cemetery, the soil, the container, the climate and how the ground is managed.
Where can I find green cemeteries?
The Green Burial Council directory is a good place to start. Then check the site's current services and fees with them directly.