“What is a green funeral?” Simply put, a “green” funeral (not to be confused with a “green burial”) is a funeral which uses more eco-friendly and environmentally responsible choices as part of its arrangements and services. Let’s take a closer look at what it means to be green as we answer the question, “What is a green funeral?”
Why More Families are Thinking Green
Environmental responsibility has been top-of-mind for many people for a long time. In fact, the first Earth Day celebration was held nearly 50 years ago! Today, Earth Day events are held in nearly 200 countries around the world. So, it’s only natural that thinking green eventually extended to end-of-life considerations, including funeral planning. And whether your funeral services provider offers specific green funeral services and options, you can still make green choices.
Simple Ways to Have a Green Funeral
According to the National Funeral Director’s Association (NFDA), a green funeral “may include any or all of the following: no embalming or embalming with formaldehyde-free products; the use of sustainable biodegradable clothing, shroud or casket; using recycled paper products; serving organic food (if food may be served in a funeral home in your state); locally-grown organic flowers; funeral guest carpooling; natural or green burial.”
As you can see, there can be many ways to incorporate environmental responsibility into funeral planning. In addition to the question, “What is a green funeral?”, we are often asked if cremation is a green alternative. While cremated remains are not necessarily interred in a cemetery (thus, saving land resources), the cremation process uses non-renewable fossil fuels and produces airborne pollutants. Therefore, cremation is not a completely green alternative.
So, What is a Green Funeral?
A green funeral uses environmentally responsible alternative for funeral services and arrangements. It is an eco-friendly option that can be simple to utilize without adding significantly to funeral costs. To learn more or pre-plan a green funeral, contact us at Stillinger Family Funeral Home in Greenfield, Indiana at (317) 462-5536.
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