Green Burial & Natural Cemeteries: An Eco-Friendly Choice

Green burial is one of the fastest-growing trends in the American funeral industry. By skipping embalming, concrete vaults, and traditional caskets, natural burial returns the body to the earth as simply and sustainably as possible. Currently, there are some 220 natural burial cemeteries across the United States, and that number is growing every year.

What Is Green Burial?

A green or "natural" burial means the body is not embalmed with formaldehyde-based chemicals, is placed in a biodegradable container (or a simple shroud), and is buried without a concrete vault. The goal is minimal environmental impact -- allowing the body to decompose naturally and return nutrients to the soil.

Types of Green Burial Cemeteries

The Green Burial Council certifies three levels:

• Hybrid cemeteries -- Traditional cemeteries that have added a green burial section. The most widely available option.
• Natural burial cemeteries -- Entire grounds are dedicated to vault-free, biodegradable burials with a nature-focused landscape.
• Conservation burial grounds -- Protected lands where burial fees directly fund habitat preservation and ecological restoration.

What Does Green Burial Cost?

Green burial is typically more affordable than traditional burial. A plot, burial, and biodegradable container typically cost between $1,000 and $4,000. With full funeral home services, total costs range from $2,000 to $8,000 -- compared to $7,000-$12,000 for a traditional burial.

Burial Container Options

• Cotton, linen, or hemp shrouds
• Wicker or bamboo caskets
• Cardboard caskets
• Untreated wood caskets (pine, poplar)

Family-Directed Funerals

Many green burial cemeteries allow families to have full involvement in what is known as a "family-directed funeral" or DIY funeral. The family transports the deceased, prepares the body without chemicals, and conducts a simple graveside service. This hands-on approach can be deeply meaningful for the grieving process.