Green Burials

Interest in the concept of green burials has been slow but is steadily showing signs of increasing.  In this form of burial, emphasis is placed on a return to nature and an absence of all unnatural things. The body is not embalmed. The remains are placed in a shroud and/or a simple wooden casket, and burial is made 36 hours following death.  No burial vault is used.  Everything buried with the body is biodegradable; i.e., no metal or synthetic material.  “Dust to dust, ashes to ashes” is the theme of this practice.  All services are conducted at the grave site.  In some cases family members may even assist in filling the grave.

Memorialization may utilize native fieldstones within the cemetery.  Specifically placed trees or shrubs may also be used.

A new cemetery may be designed for green burials only.  Within a traditional cemetery, specific areas may be designated as “green,” where only this type of burial may occur.  Over time, the section may take on the appearance of a meadow or a woodland, depending on the plan.

While a specific burial location may be chosen when purchasing burial rights in a traditional cemetery, a green burial site is determined at the time of burial.

The Catholic Cemeteries Association has designated some acreage in four diocesan cemeteries as green burial space. Operating procedures for receiving and burying green burials are now being developed. More information will be relayed on the web site as it is available.