Green Burial

The Kearney Difference

Green Burial or Natural Burial, is for those who aim to minimize their impact on the environment, who are mindful of the natural cycle of life, and seek a natural alternative to conventional burial or cremation. It is an environmentally-conscious and sensitive practice, where the body is returned to the earth to naturally decompose and contribute to and support new life.

How to be Green?

The guidelines for a green or natural burial typically include the following:

Basic sanitation and preparation of the body.
The body is wrapped in a biodegradable shroud made from natural fibers.
If clothing is requested, only biodegradable, natural fiber garments (such as 100% cotton or linen) are used.
If a casket is used, it should be sustainable and biodegradable, without toxic glues or metal components.
Liners or vaults are not used, allowing the body to return naturally to the earth.
The shrouded or casketed body is placed directly into the ground.
If embalming is required, only eco-friendly chemicals and methods should be used.

Ecological Restoration & Conservation

“Once a green burial has been completed, the surface of every grave is, after allowing some time for grave settling, planted with locally indigenous plant materials, using a combination of groundcover, shrubs and trees. These plantings will normally be done according to a pre-established planting plan designed to optimize the creation, enhancement and integration of the interment area into the greater local eco-system.”

Green Burial Society of Canada
https://www.greenburialcanada.ca/greenburial