Deciding how to handle remains—cremation, composting, or traditional burial—is a difficult task. But which is best for the planet? New research suggests the most eco-friendly option isn’t necessarily the newest or flashiest. It’s surprisingly simple: natural burial.
This article breaks down the environmental impact of various methods, from conventional burials to cutting-edge technologies like aquamation and human composting, revealing why returning to the earth with minimal interference is the lowest-impact choice.
The Problem with Modern Burial
Conventional burial, involving embalming chemicals, metal caskets, and concrete vaults, is resource-intensive. Mining, manufacturing, and transportation contribute heavily to its carbon footprint. These materials remain permanently in the ground, offering no return to the ecosystem. Cremation isn’t much better; while seemingly simpler, it requires high temperatures, typically fueled by fossil fuels, and releases mercury vapor from dental fillings into the environment. One study shows that roughly 14% of mercury in US waterways comes from cremation.
Newer Technologies: Not a Silver Bullet
Emerging options like aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis) and human composting offer some improvements. Aquamation reduces carbon emissions by about 20% compared to cremation but generates large volumes of liquid waste. Human composting, while promising, requires water-intensive inputs like alfalfa and may involve long-distance transportation of the final product. These options aren’t impact-free.
The Case for Natural Burial
Natural burial involves placing a body in a biodegradable shroud or wooden box directly into the soil, without embalming or vaults. A 2017 lifecycle assessment confirms this method consistently has the lowest overall environmental cost. It allows natural decomposition, returning nutrients to the soil and avoiding chemical runoff. Many natural burial sites also function as conservation land, actively protecting habitats.
“Everybody wants something shiny, new and exciting, but the simplest solution is usually the best,” says Lee Webster, an expert in green burial practices.
The Future of Death Care
While natural burial currently reigns supreme, innovator Bob Jenkins is developing a method to accelerate decomposition into nutrient-rich material. However, this technology isn’t yet available. For now, the most eco-friendly choice remains the most basic: returning to the earth with minimal intervention.
Ultimately, the most sustainable approach is often the simplest. Choosing natural burial isn’t just about minimizing environmental impact; it’s about a return to fundamental ecological principles.
