What is a natural burial?

When a loved one dies, those remaining want to honor the departed, usually by purchasing a grave marker and a lined casket. Now families have more choices in honoring the departed's wishes.

Natural or green burials are preferred by those who wish to extend their ideals to their final phase on earth. A natural burial uses no embalming chemicals, head stone or traditional casket. Instead, the casket is biodegradable.

Some choose to forego any casket, choosing a shroud of silk or a favorite quilt instead. If a fast burial is not possible, the body is frozen rather than embalmed with formaldehyde. In place of a an engraved headstone, trees, shrubs and flat stones mark the grave.

Although a few traditional cemeteries allow green burials, natural and conservation burial grounds are gradually developing in western countries. In many states it is legal to set aside a portion of land for home burials. Either way, the loved ones have the opportunity to help with the preparation and burying rituals.

A natural burial can be the most affordable burial choice. However, those who have chosen it appreciate knowing that their remains will beautify, not harm, the earth.