What is green burial?
Green (or natural) burial is a time-honored practice: the body is buried without chemical embalming, in a biodegradable casket or a simple shroud, so it can return to the earth naturally. It avoids the materials — formaldehyde, metal, and concrete — used in conventional burial. For many families, it's an expression of faith, a love of the land, or simply a wish for something simple and unspoiled.
The elements of a natural burial
No embalming
The body is cared for without formaldehyde-based embalming, using refrigeration and timing instead. This is the heart of a natural burial.
Biodegradable container
A simple wood, wicker, or shrouded burial — no metal casket — so everything breaks down naturally over time.
Natural setting
Burial without a concrete vault, often in a section of the cemetery that allows natural burial, so the land stays as it is.
How we help
We'll walk you through what a natural burial involves, help you choose a biodegradable casket or shroud, and coordinate with a cemetery that permits green burial. Because there's no embalming, timing matters a little more — and we'll handle that with care.
Green burial can still include a full visitation and service, a graveside gathering, and all the moments of remembrance you'd want. It's simply a more natural path to the same loving farewell. Prefer to compare? See our guides to burial costs and cremation vs. burial.
Green burial FAQs
What is a green or natural burial?
A burial without chemical embalming, in a biodegradable casket or shroud, and typically without a concrete vault — so the body returns to the earth naturally. It minimizes environmental impact and uses no synthetic materials.
Can we still have a service with green burial?
Yes. A natural burial can include a visitation, a service, and a graveside gathering, just like a conventional funeral. It's the burial method that's different, not the farewell.
Is embalming required?
No — embalming is rarely required by law, and green burial specifically avoids it, relying on refrigeration and thoughtful timing instead.
Does green burial cost more?
Not necessarily. Green burial can cost less, since it skips embalming, a metal casket, and a vault. Cemetery fees still apply. We'll give you an itemized price so you can compare.
Ask us about green burial
If a natural burial feels right for your family, we'd be honored to help. Reach out and we'll explain every option and cost with care and no pressure.