Green burial services have risen in popularity over the past few years, with more people wishing to have a more natural burial site without embalming or a burial vault—
instead opting for all biodegradable materials.

It is a way of caring for the dead with
“minimal environmental impact that aids in the conservation of natural resources, reduction of carbon emissions, protection of workers’ health, and the restoration or preservation of habitat,”
(greenburialcouncil.org).

This earth-conscious option also promotes the growth of native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers on the site.

What’s Included in a Green Burial at Ryan Funeral Home

Green services provided at Ryan Funeral Home can include some traditional elements, such as a closed casket visitation.
They also include professional services such as:

• Funeral home coordination

• Use of facilities

• Transportation

• Necessary documentation

• Clergy and newspaper coordination

• Cemetery coordination

You may choose a burial shroud, pine box, or family-provided shroud or casket for the service.

Why Choose a Green Burial?

• Cost: Green burials are typically less expensive than traditional services, as they exclude embalming, metal caskets, vaults, and some ceremonial elements.

• Environmental Benefits: The goal is to promote natural decomposition. By using a pine box or burial shroud instead of a traditional casket:

  • Decomposition is natural and safe for the earth

  • The body will not be disturbed by wild animals

  • There is no risk of contaminating drinking water

• Seasonal Consideration: Green burials can take place in winter, just like a traditional burial, provided the ground is not frozen.

Grave Marking in Green Cemeteries

A unique feature of green cemeteries is the absence of upright monuments. Instead, they may include:

• A flat stone marker

• A central cenotaph at the cemetery entrance that lists names and dates of those buried

• No physical markers at all, depending on the cemetery’s practices

Planning a Green Burial

As with any burial service, a green burial can be preplanned with a funeral director or preplanning specialist.
You can learn more here:
https://www.ryanfuneralservice.com/green-burials/

If you or a loved one is interested in learning more about Ryan Funeral Home’s ability to plan a green funeral,
please contact our office:
https://www.ryanfuneralservice.com/contact-us