Climate Conscious Burial Options

The cost of an average American funeral and burial is $7,848. If you, like many others, are looking for an economic alternative, the green burial movement is something to consider. As its name infers, the green burial movement is not only cost-effective but also strays away from the traditional funeral practice while aiding in environmental sustainability.

The “green burial movement” is defined by the Green Burial Council as “a way to care for the dead with minimal environmental impact”. There are many methods of green burial, but all aim to create more eco-friendly after-death options. If you are curious to know more about available and conceptual options, here is what you should know: 

Coral Reef Urns and Balls

For ocean lovers alike, a green burial method involving water may be something important to consider. Eco-friendly coral reef urns are a green after-life option that works to save dying reefs around the world. It should be noted that this method can only be used if you choose to be cremated. The process of growing coral reefs with ashes requires a special urn that is composed of a pH-balanced artificial reef. If an urn is not something you want, ashes can be mixed with cement which eventually turns into an artificial coral reef ball. This ball is hallow and often acts as a habitat for ocean life. Depending on which company you choose, most offer a GPS record of the reef and a plaque with an inscription. This method is vital is fighting climate change, as coral reef life has been constantly declining since 2009. 

Promession

Designed by the late Susanne Wiigh-Mäsak, a Swedish biologist, Promession is a conceptual machine that rapidly decomposes a corpse through a freeze drying process. After the deceased is frozen using liquid nitrogen, the body is vibrated in a machine that leaves behind fragments. The fragments are then placed in a degradable coffin and buried in soil. Once in soil, the body’s carbon can go back into the Earth and ultimately help in reducing climate change. At this point in time, Promession is in a theoretical stage and is not yet available to the public. 

Although Promession is not yet widely used, the process has made strides in the media in regards to legalization. In 2019, Kansas made efforts to legalize the process, but ceased when the Kansas Attorney General discovered that Promession does not meet the definition of cremation under Kansas law. Nonetheless, progress is still moving forward as Promession has many avid promoters. 

Capsula Mundi 

Anna Citelli and Raoul Bretzel, owners of Capsula Mundi, have developed a biodegradable egg-shaped burial pod that replaces the traditional casket. As of date, Capsula Mundi serves those who wish to be cremated. However, a Capsula Mundi model suitable for bodies laid in a fetal position is underway. The Latin name, Capsula Mundi, was constructed in relation to the elements of life on Earth. The process begins when ashes are placed in a bio-plastic egg. The egg is then buried within soil. When bacteria within the soil break down the egg, the ashes gradually integrate with the soil. 

In addition to leaving an environmental legacy, this product is also advertised for a cost of $370 with the intent of buyers having a tree above the buried egg. According to its creators, the tree placement is a creative element meant to replace cemeteries filled with tombstones. Although you can plant any tree of your choosing, the company does suggest choosing one that is native to your living area.

Choosing what happens to your body after life is a deeply personal decision. With the mentioned green methods in mind, some might find pleasure in knowing these green options exist. If you are curious to know how you might find these services and other green burials alike, check out this list of green burial companies and grounds within the United States and Canada. 

— Lauren Goldberg