What are Some Green Burial Options?
The terms green and sustainability are becoming buzzwords in our culture. Today's blog will discuss different options for more equal-friendly burial choices when your loved one passes away.
If you have recently had to schedule funeral or cremation services in Canton Township, MI, you might be wondering what your choices are when it comes to alternatives. With the demand growing for an alternative solution around burial options, utilizing compostable products to create burial options is a priority. And if being eco-friendly is essential to your loved one for yourself, here's more information on the subject.
What Does a Green Burial Mean?
This kind of burial has the least impact on the environment by reducing emissions, conserving natural resources, and protecting workers; it helps preserve habitats. The primary goal is to let the body naturally decompose without any burial vaults involved. The process enables the body to return to nature and allow any plants that were disrupted to grow back, thus leaving no trace that a burial took place in the area.
Options
Caskets that are Made from Sustainable Products
Per the Green Burial Council, the container chosen must be made from recycled or reclaimed materials that are sustainable. Some examples of material that can be used are:
- Felt
- Seagrass
- Willow
- Bamboo
- Cork
The containers cannot have any plastics in them and should be toxin-free as well as biodegradable.
Wooden
You can get a wood coffin for around $1000, although some alternative options have woodworking or dowels on them and can range between $3000 and $5000. 
Cardboard
This coffin choice is like a shroud because they allow for personalization which makes each one unique as the individual was. This option is biodegradable and can be adorned with paintings, pictures, and a way for the family member to leave a message for the individual. The cost of one of these receptacles is around $300.
Woven
These caskets are made of sustainable materials such as cotton or banana leaf and come in various shades. They usually will come with handles and may have a liner for leakage prevention. The price ranges between $900 hundred $2800 it can hold up to 350 pounds.
Biodegradable Urn
There are multiple options when it comes to finding a biodegradable urn made from recycled material. They come in various designs, shapes, and colors and can be made out of multiple options such as:
- Unfired clay
- Handmade paper
- Tree bark or plant material
- Salt blocks
- Palm leaves
You may apply a biodegradable bag inside the urn and use eco-friendly glue as a sealant. The urns are also beneficial because they will not decompose until they are placed in water or buried in the earth.
A Trusted and Local Company
Whether you choose a traditional or more eco-friendly option, your primary concern is choosing the right one that will reflect your loved one's individuality and honor them appropriately. 
Schrader-Howell Funeral Home has been in business since 1904, caring for our community and the families who live in it. We take pride in offering compassionate care with all of our services for our clients. If you need to schedule cremation services in Canton Township, MI, we are here to help, so call us today to schedule your appointment.
