Woodland Burials
◆
A woodland burial
Sometimes called a natural burial, is an environmentally friendly alternative to a traditional burial. Instead of a conventional cemetery, the burial takes place in a natural setting, such as woodland, meadow or parkland, allowing the area to remain or develop as a natural landscape.
Many people choose a woodland burial because it reflects their love of nature or their wish to leave a smaller environmental footprint.
Coffin Choices
Most woodland burial grounds require biodegradable coffins or shrouds made from natural materials.
These may include:
- Willow
- Wicker
- Bamboo
- Wool
- Cardboard
- Seagrass
- Banana leaf
- Other natural materials
Your funeral director can advise which options are accepted by your chosen burial ground.
Memorial
Many woodland burial grounds have restrictions on traditional headstones to help preserve the natural environment.
Instead, memorials may include:
- A tree.
- A simple wooden plaque.
- A natural stone (where permitted).
- A place recorded on a memorial map or database.
Every woodland burial ground has its own rules, so it's important to check what is permitted.
Some woodland burial grounds do not allow individual memorials at all, helping the area remain as natural as possible.
Flowers
Some woodland burial grounds may discourage plastic wrapping, artificial flowers or floral foam to protect the environment.