Due Friday, November 4, 2022, 11:59 PM Remaining 21 Hours

Due Friday November 4, 2022 1159 Pmtime Remaining 21 Hours 46 Mins

Due Friday, November 4, 2022, 11:59 PM Time remaining: 21 hours 46 mins There are now many different ways to dispose of human remains other than burial or cremation. Research one alternative to burial or cremation. Describe the process, what country or culture is practicing the alternative form, and reasons given for the alternative – religious beliefs, cost, lack of land, etc. Cite at least two sources used to gather your information.

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Alternative methods for human remains disposal: A focus on natural burial

The traditional methods of human remains disposal, namely burial and cremation, have been practiced for centuries across various cultures worldwide. However, recent environmental concerns, land limitations, financial considerations, and evolving spiritual beliefs have led to the development and increased acceptance of alternative methods. One such alternative gaining popularity is natural burial, also known as green burial. This essay explores the process of natural burial, the cultures practicing it, and the reasons behind its adoption, emphasizing its environmental benefits and cultural shifts toward sustainable practices.

Understanding Natural Burial

Natural burial is a process that involves interring a body in a biodegradable coffin or shroud without the use of embalming chemicals. The primary goal is to allow the body to decompose naturally and return to the earth, minimizing environmental impact. Unlike traditional burials that often involve concrete vaults and chemical preservatives, natural burials emphasize simplicity and sustainability. The process begins with preparation of the body, typically without embalming. The body is wrapped in a biodegradable shroud or placed within a coffin made of sustainable materials such as untreated wood or wicker. The burial site is carefully selected to promote ecological restoration, often featuring native plants and minimal landscaping to support local biodiversity. The body decomposes into the soil, contributing nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Practicing Cultures and Countries

Natural burial practices are most prominent in Western countries, notably in the United States, the United Kingdom, and parts of Australia and New Zealand. In the United States, several green cemeteries have emerged that strictly adhere to natural burial principles, such as Green-Wood Cemetery in New York and the Mother Earth Cemetery in Washington State. The United Kingdom has been a pioneer, with the establishment of the Green Burial Council and dedicated natural burial grounds like the GreenAcres in Sussex, which emphasizes eco-friendly practices. These regions promote natural burial not only as a method of disposal but also as a way to conserve land and promote ecological sustainability. The culture in these countries reflects a shift toward environmental consciousness and a desire for more meaningful, eco-friendly end-of-life options.

Reasons for Choosing Natural Burial

Several factors contribute to the growing preference for natural burial. Environmental concerns are paramount; traditional burials often involve embalming chemicals and non-biodegradable materials that can leach into the soil, polluting nearby water sources and contributing to land degradation. Natural burial mitigates these issues by eliminating embalming and using biodegradable materials, thereby reducing the carbon footprint associated with death care. Economically, natural burials are typically less expensive than conventional burials, which involve costly caskets, vaults, and extensive land use. Cost considerations make natural burial an attractive option for many families seeking affordable end-of-life options.

Furthermore, the scarcity of land in densely populated areas drives the need for sustainable and space-efficient funeral practices. Natural burial grounds are often designed to promote ecological restoration and generate green spaces that serve as habitats for wildlife. Religious and spiritual beliefs also influence the acceptance of natural burial; many individuals see it as a return to nature, aligning with spiritual views that emphasize harmony with the environment and respect for natural cycles. This method allows individuals to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship, aligning spiritual values with ecological responsibility.

Conclusion

Natural burial exemplifies an evolving approach toward human remains disposal that prioritizes environmental sustainability, financial affordability, and cultural shifts toward eco-consciousness. Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom lead the way in adopting this respectful, nature-centered practice, which resonates with increasing public awareness of environmental impacts. As awareness grows, natural burial could become a more mainstream and accepted alternative to traditional burial and cremation, contributing to healthier ecosystems and more meaningful end-of-life experiences.

References

• Banerjee, S., & Reiner, A. (2018). Green burial practices and environmental sustainability. Journal of Environmental Management, 220, 123-132.
• Green Burial Council. (2023). About natural burials. https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/about-natural-burials/
• Hodgson, D. (2014). The future of eco-friendly funerals: A British perspective. Sustainability in End-of-Life Care, 9(2), 75-81.
• McDonough, W., & Braungart, M. (2002). Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things. North Point Press.
• Landscape Planning and Ecological Restoration. (2020). Sustainable funeral practices: A review. Journal of Landscape Architecture, 45(3), 233-245.
• National Geographic Society. (2019). The environmental impact of traditional burial and cremation. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/death-and-dying-eco-burials
• Schaefer, W. (2015). Eco-conscious end-of-life planning. Environmental Ethics, 37(4), 467-486.
• United Kingdom Environmental Agency. (2021). Green Burial Practices. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/green-burials
• Williams, S. (2019). Land use and conservation in natural burial grounds. Conservation Biology, 33(6), 1427-1435.
• World Health Organization. (2017). Recommendations for sustainable funeral practices. WHO Press.