Consider Going Green: The Green Burial Movement

Today, the average American funeral is likely to include many things that most expect: a costly coffin, flowers, and a plethora of additional ceremonial practices. However, there are new emerging burial options that stray away from the traditional funeral idea we have come to know. The “green burial movement” highlights such options.

The “green burial movement” is defined by the Green Burial Council as “a way to care for the dead with minimal environmental impact” and also aids in the process of sustainability. There is a multitude of professionals and product-sellers that aim to create more eco-friendly after-death options for you, your loved ones, and the planet. If you are curious about exploring green burial options, here are some methods that you should know:

Alkaline Hydrolysis (AKA Water Cremation)

Alkaline Hydrolysis is a method of preparing the deceased before their final burial. This process is similar to the widely-known cremation method but instead of fire, water and other solutions are used. When the water solution is heated, the body is dissolved. Bone fragments and sterile liquid remains after the process. Notably, this green alternative received press coverage after Nobel Peace Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu chose this process before his passing. 

Although you might not have ever heard of Alkaline Hydrolysis, the process is natural and happens after a the deceased is buried. The process in its natural state can take approximately up to 25 years to complete. This Water Cremation simply speeds up the natural process to occur within 2-3 hours in a controlled environment. In environmental terms, this process cuts greenhouse gas emissions by 35% and can cut energy use down by 90%. Alkaline Hydrolysis is legal in many states, but be sure to check your state. 

Mushroom Burial Suit (AKA Infinity Burial Suit)

Invented by Coecio founder Jae Rhim Lee, the Mushroom Burial Suit is a biodegradable garment worn by the deceased. The suit itself is equipped with a mixture of mushrooms and microorganisms that aid in decomposition, the neutralization of body toxins, and the transfer of nutrients to soil life. With prices at $1,500, the sophisticated suit was made to have one be transformed into soil nutrients. As noted by Forbes, Luke Perry, the late 90210 celebrity, was buried in one of these innovative suits. 

However, with any purchase, effective or not, options like this suit can serve as meaningful objects that hold personal value for an individual who chooses it. For those that consider green burial, it is often a symbol of care for their environment and a way to stray from a traditional funeral. 

Natural Organic Reduction (AKA Human Composting)

The option of a Natural Organic Reduction aims to support nature by transforming human remains into usable soil. Composting, in its most basic sense, is a process of recycling organic matter, like food scraps, into rich fertilizer that can be used for plant life. The process of human composting was introduced through the Recompose corporation and was legalized in Washington State in 2019. As more bills are introduced to further legalize the process, Natural Organic Reduction has also been spreading to other companies. The question of human composition may bring about questions of safety. The short answer: yes. This process is based on findings of livestock composting, which has been occurring safely for years. 

After learning just a bit about what the green burial movement has to offer, some might find kind thoughts in knowing these services exist. As the choice of burial method is personal, it can come down to cost, environmental impact, and symbolism. These environmentally sustainable death care options should be noted when considering going green. 

— Lauren Goldberg