The funeral industry has evolved significantly over recent decades. We have seen a growth in the popularity of celebrations of life; services have become more unique and customized, and overall, services are a bit less somber.
Families are discovering how comforting and sincere these final services can be. Every step of the way, the professionals at Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory have stood alongside the families of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, helping provide thoughtful, meaningful services that will serve as a memorable tribute.
One of the ways final services have evolved is to include more “green” or environmentally friendly elements. Like other customizable options, environmentally friendly choices can extend to different degrees.
Here, we will address the difference between green burials and conservation burials.
What Is a Green Burial?
A green burial is generally one that avoids embalming and the use of caskets and vaults. It is a burial that promotes the natural decomposition of a body into the soil.
What Is a Conservation Burial?
A conservation burial embraces elements of a green burial but also includes burial fees that promote land conservation and reforestation. The mission is to protect land while encouraging natural burials.
The Benefits of Green Burials and Conservation Burials
Perhaps the biggest environmental benefit of a green burial is that it eliminates embalming chemicals from entering the soil. It also minimizes the use of concrete, wood, and metals that are often buried with the body in the form of a vault or casket. Materials used in a green burial are typically intentionally biodegradable.
While embracing aspects of a green burial, conservation burials have a mission of guarding the environment.
Cultural and Societal Impacts
One of the reasons natural burials seem to be on the rise is that it is often perceived as a natural process that returns our bodies to the earth. It symbolizes our return to Mother Earth. Many feel it symbolizes our place in the natural order of things and the cycle of life.
Interesting Facts Regarding Green Burials
Green, or natural, burials are legal in all 50 states, although some states may have their own guidelines.
Natural graves tend to be more shallow than traditional graves. Green burials are usually three or four feet deep.
There is no evidence of animals disturbing natural graves.
Individual cemeteries may have their own policies regarding natural burials.
It may be possible to establish a green cemetery if you are a landowner. You may have to get a permit and follow some guidelines, but establishing a green cemetery may be possible for your community.
We Are Here to Answer Your Questions
At Fares J. Funeral Homes and Crematory, we have been assisting families in Northern Kentucky and the Cincinnati, Ohio areas in their times of need for over 125 years.
We have multiple locations to better serve you and have the only privately owned crematory in Greater Cincinnati.
We stay connected with the needs and trends in the funeral industry, including green and natural burials.
Whether you are preplanning or in a current need, we would be honored to answer your questions. Contact us today at Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory.
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