While discussing burial options isn't a topic for casual conversation, there is worthwhile news in the funeral industry for those who would prefer to be environmentally conscientious even in their final resting place. Green-burial providers adopt practices that are non-toxic and energy conserving, including burial with non-toxic, biodegradable burial containers, preparation of the body without the use of formaldehyde-based embalming chemicals, and grave-site landscape derived from and compatible with regional ecosystems. Coffins and cremation urns for green burials are made using only environmentally sustainable material, such as Bamboo; Pandanus – an environmentally friendly alternative to sea grass; Willow – cut from bushes known as crowns which remain viable for about 40 years before they need to be replanted; and Banana sheaves that come from the trunk of the plant and peel off naturally each year. The body is not dressed in traditional clothing which may contain man-made materials, but is wrapped in a cotton shroud. Home wakes, public visitations, church funerals and graveside services are options that may be arranged within the limited time frame green burial allows.
There's even a Green Burial Council (founded in 2005), a nonprofit organization that advocates sustainable, economically viable burials and the restoration and stewardship of natural areas. GBC certifies funeral-service providers and cemeteries as green-burial providers to address a “new ethic in death-care.” Schoedinger Funeral & Cremation Service was certified by the GBC, and is the only certified service in the Columbus area.
So far, the only certified cemetery available to the public locally is the Foxfield Preserve in Wilmot, Ohio. This is obviously the limiting factor, unless a private, home-burial site is available. Until more cemeteries adopt a green philosophy, green burials will be limited in central Ohio. Requests from the public will speed the process along.
Cut flowers are an obvious choice for green burials. Arrangements can be tied with raffia and displayed in traditional containers to stay fresh for visitation hours, and can then be removed as a unit from the container for placement in or on the casket, or by the grave marker.
If a complete green burial is not possible, consider a partial green burial. For example, if a green cemetery is not available, use a shroud and a green burial container to minimize the environmental impact. Be sure to let us know if you prefer “green” flower treatment, even at a traditional burial. We will work with your funeral director to comply with your wishes.
More information is available at http://www.greenburialcouncil.org.
Blumen Garten Florist - 614.451.1299
