Biodegradable Coffins

What is a Natural Burial?

Natural burials do not allow for the deceased person's body to be embalmed, so decomposition occurs at a faster rate. Also, his or her casket is made of natural and biodegradable materials, and over time, a tree or similar "green" plant grows where the body is buried. Traditional headstones are replaced with more natural-looking stones engraved with the deceased person's information. In the United States, natural burials are allowed at only a handful of cemeteries including those in:

• California
• South Carolina
• Florida
• Texas
• New York

However, with the demand for green funerals rising, more states are considering allowing this type of burial option, which has been popular in Great Britain for many years.

About Biodegradable Coffins

Biodegradable coffins, also known as green caskets, come in a multitude of styles and materials. They were designed to satisfy the growing number of individuals who prefer to have a "natural burial" instead of a traditional funeral. Cremation was long thought to be a eco-friendly option, but many have been raising concerns about its excessive use of fossil fuels.

Biodegradable caskets can be made to bury someone in the ground or at sea. They will not harm the environment, and budget-wise, are a very cost-efficient burial option. These coffins do not use a vault, cement or otherwise, and everything, including the hardware and lining is completely natural. Biodegradable coffins can be made from:

• Cardboard
• Biodegradable plastic
• Fair-trade-certified bamboo
• Wood
• Recycled paper
• Formaldehyde-free plywood
• Hand-woven willow or wicker

Fabrics to Line Green Caskets

The coffins are lined with natural fabrics and are hermetically sealed to prevent water seepage. Those fabrics include:

• Unbleached cotton
• Dried leaves or flowers
• Bamboo
• Flax
• Hand-woven silk
• Stalk fibers
• Seeds or seed casings
• Fibers from fruits or vegetables

Where to Find Biodegradable Coffins

Because this type of burial container is not a first choice for many (partly because of their location), they are a little hard to come by; but that is changing. Because of the Internet, those wishing to prearrange their natural burials can purchase a biodegradable coffin at one of several online stores. Prices range from roughly $100 for a cardboard burial container to more than $3,000 for something a little more elaborate. If you can not find one to your liking now, just wait a few years, as the need and want for natural burials will more than likely increase.

Natural Burial Company

The Natural Burial Company sells a variety of biodegradable caskets and ash burial urns. Taking its cues from natural funeral companies in England, the following types of biodegradable caskets are available:

• Recycled paper coffins: Made from recycled newspaper and covered in mulberry leaf and recycled silk paper
• Wooden coffin kits: Three styles are available including one that is certified kosher
• Natural child and infant caskets: A serene, wicker-woven Moses basket is available for small children.
• Cremation urns: Pressed paper urns for burial in a forest or garden
• Cardboard containers: Several styles are available; make sure you check out all of the options before purchasing as there are weight limits on some of them

Ecopod

Created in England, this completely natural, biodegradable casket is a popular style used in many natural burials. They come in:

• Two sizes (small and large)
• Colors such as blue, red, green, white, silver and gold

You can also purchase an Akorn Urn for cremated ashes. It is designed from moss green hand-made paper.

Remember the Law

Biodegradable coffins can only be used in cemeteries zoned for natural burials. If you are unsure as what your state or municipality allows, find out before you purchase the casket.