What is 'natural burial'?

Natural burial refers to a burial method that emphasizes environmental sustainability by minimizing the impact on the earth. This approach typically avoids the use of traditional caskets made from non-biodegradable materials or embalming fluids, which can be harmful to the environment. Instead, natural burials generally use biodegradable materials, such as simple wooden caskets or shrouds, that allow the body to decompose naturally and return to the earth. This aligns with eco-friendly practices and promotes the conservation of natural resources by allowing for the restoration of ecosystems.

In terms of other methods, such as traditional burials with metal caskets and embalming, these are not characteristic of natural burials since they often involve materials and processes that are detrimental to the environment. Similarly, cremation methods, whether energy-efficient or not, do not fall under the definition of natural burial, as they involve the burning of the body and can produce emissions that affect air quality. The focus of natural burial is specifically on sustainability and the use of organic materials, making it an increasingly popular choice among those looking to honor the environment in their final arrangements.