What is Green Goodbye? A Complete Guide for Families

 Introduction

More families today are searching for funeral options that honor both their loved ones and the environment. Traditional burials often involve embalming fluids, metal caskets, and concrete vaults that can harm the earth for centuries. In contrast, green burials provide a simpler, more natural approach—one that returns the body gently to the earth. This guide explains what green burials are, how they work, and why so many people are choosing them.

What Is a Green Burial?

A green burial (also called a natural burial) is a method of laying a person to rest without the use of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, or concrete vaults. Instead, the body is prepared and buried in a way that allows it to decompose naturally and return to the soil.  The goal is simple: to minimize environmental impact while creating a meaningful, dignified farewell.

Key Features of a Green Burial

• No Embalming Fluids
• Traditional embalming uses formaldehyde-based chemicals that can seep into the soil.
• Green burials avoid embalming entirely, or use non-toxic alternatives when necessary.
• Biodegradable Caskets or Shrouds
• Families often choose simple pine boxes, wicker caskets, or organic cotton shrouds.
• These break down naturally, leaving no long-lasting materials behind.
• Natural Cemeteries
• Instead of manicured lawns with headstones, many green cemeteries look more like conservation areas.
• Grave markers may be natural stones, wooden markers, or even GPS coordinates.
• Conservation and Renewal
• Some green burial grounds actively restore ecosystems, plant trees, and preserve wildlife habitats.

Why Families Choose Green Burials

• Environmental Impact
  
• A traditional burial often uses metal, hardwood, and concrete, which can take hundreds of years to break down.
  
• A single cremation releases about 540 pounds of carbon dioxide. Green burials avoid both issues.
  
• Simplicity and Cost
  
• Without vaults, ornate caskets, or embalming, many families find green burials more affordable.
  
• Spiritual and Emotional Connection
  
• Families often say that natural settings—trees, meadows, and wildflowers—create a peaceful environment that feels closer to nature.

Green Burial vs. Traditional Burial

                                                                                  Traditional Burial    Green Burial

                                                                   Embalming with chemicals    No toxic chemicals

                                                                    Metal or hardwood casket    Biodegradable casket/shroud

                                                                             Concrete burial vault    Direct earth burial

                                                               Manicured lawns, headstones  Natural landscapes, minimal markers

                                                              Higher environmental footprint  Low environmental footprint

How to Arrange a Green Burial

• Find a Green Cemetery
  
• Look for cemeteries certified by the Green Burial Council, or ask funeral providers about eco-friendly options.
  
• Choose Burial Materials
  
• Select a biodegradable casket, shroud, or urn.
  
• Plan the Ceremony
  
• Families may choose a simple graveside service, or incorporate natural elements like tree plantings or outdoor music.
  
• Communicate Your Wishes
  
• If preplanning, make your preferences known so your loved ones can carry them out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a green burial legal?

Yes, green burials are legal in most states. Some local regulations may require burial vaults, but many green cemeteries operate without them.

Are green burials more expensive?

Not necessarily. In fact, they are often more affordable since families avoid embalming, vaults, and elaborate caskets.

Can veterans choose green burial?

Veterans may be eligible for burial benefits, though most national cemeteries currently require vaults. Some families choose to use green cemeteries instead.

A green burial is more than just an eco-friendly alternative—it’s a meaningful way to say goodbye while leaving a legacy of sustainability. By choosing this path, families honor their loved ones and protect the planet for generations to come.  At Green Goodbye, we are here to guide you through every step of planning a natural farewell, whether you’re considering a green burial or exploring aquamation.