Alternatives to burial and cremation?

Washington state now offers “natural organic reduction,” a composting process that turns a body into soil in a few weeks. It costs $5,500 USD and is more environmentally friendly than cremation or traditional burial. Some cemeteries offer “green” burials without embalming. The Washington State Catholic Conference opposes human composting, while actor Luke Perry was buried […]

What’s a burial site?

Gravefields are prehistoric burial sites that provide insight into cultures. They come in various styles and sizes, with some having markers and others not. Early gravefields were small and maintained by families, while later ones were for the community. Burial customs changed over time, and gravefields can be difficult to locate. They are of historical […]

What’s Natural Burial?

Natural burial is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional funerals, popular in Europe and gaining traction in the US since the 1990s. It involves a simple ceremony and a biodegradable coffin or shroud, with natural markers or GPS used to track graves. Natural cemeteries prioritize wilderness areas and parks for contemplation. It is cheaper than […]

What’s a crypt for burial?

A burial vault is an external enclosure for a coffin that prevents it from being crushed, making maintenance easier and the cemetery safer. They are rarely seen outside the US and increase funeral costs. Some religions and green cemeteries discourage their use. Advance research and funeral planning can save money and relieve the bereaved of […]

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