Choosing a Green Burial: What You Need to Know
May 29, 2025
As spring winds down and the warm days of summer begin to bloom, we’re reminded of the natural cycles of life—and our place within them. This time of year invites reflection, connection, and the opportunity to align our values with the choices we make, including how we approach end-of-life planning.
At Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services, we’ve seen a growing number of families express interest in green burials—a meaningful and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional burial or cremation. Whether you’re just starting your funeral planning journey or are considering a natural burial for yourself or a loved one, this post will help you understand the benefits, bust some common myths, and explore what’s involved in a green burial.
What Is a Green Burial?
A green burial, also known as a natural burial, is a method of interment that forgoes chemical embalming, metal or hardwood caskets, and concrete vaults. Instead, the body is returned to the earth in a more natural way—often using biodegradable materials and allowing for natural decomposition.
In most cases, the burial takes place in a natural setting or a designated green cemetery that prioritizes conservation and minimal environmental disruption.
Why Choose a Green Burial?
At Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services, we’ve seen growing interest in eco-conscious end-of-life options. Families often choose green burials for several important reasons:
- Environmental Benefits
Green burials reduce environmental impact in several key ways:
– No embalming chemicals: Traditional embalming uses formaldehyde and other toxic substances, which can leach into the soil. Green burials avoid this altogether.
– Biodegradable materials: Caskets or shrouds used in green burials are made from natural materials like bamboo and willow-made.
– Minimal land disruption: Green burial grounds often avoid the use of concrete vaults and large monuments, preserving the natural landscape.
By choosing a green burial, you’re not just planning a funeral—you’re also making an environmentally responsible choice for future generations. - Simplicity and Spiritual Connection
Many people find green burials to be more intimate and in tune with personal or spiritual beliefs. Returning to the earth naturally can feel more peaceful and aligned with the cycles of life. - Cost Savings
Because green burials often avoid expensive embalming, elaborate caskets, and vaults, they can also be more cost-effective. While costs vary depending on location and services chosen, this is generally one of the more affordable funeral planning options.
Common Myths About Green Burials
Despite their many benefits, green burials are still misunderstood. Let’s clear up some common myths we hear at Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services:
Myth 1: Green burials are illegal.
Truth: Green burials are legal in most provinces, including here in British Columbia. While not all cemeteries offer green burial sections, there are certified natural burial grounds and hybrid cemeteries that do.
Myth 2: You can’t have a traditional service with a green burial.
Truth: You absolutely can. Many families choose to hold a viewing, celebration of life, or religious ceremony as part of a green burial. It’s about making the process more sustainable, not less personal.
Myth 3: Green burials are only for certain religions or lifestyles.
Truth: People from all walks of life choose green burials for a wide range of reasons—environmental values, simplicity, cultural beliefs, or just a desire for something more natural.
How Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services Supports Green Burials
At Cypress, we’re committed to offering a wide range of funeral planning options to meet your needs and values—including green burials. Here’s how we can help:
Education & Planning Support:
Not sure if a green burial is right for you? We’ll walk you through the process, costs, and available options locally.
Biodegradable Products:
We offer eco-friendly caskets, shrouds, and urns designed specifically for natural burials.
Connection to Green Burial Grounds:
We can coordinate with local and regional green cemeteries to ensure your wishes are carried out respectfully and legally.
Personalization:
Just like any funeral or memorial, your green burial can be deeply personal—with music, readings, ceremonies, and meaningful touches.
We believe that every family deserves a farewell that reflects their beliefs—and that includes making environmentally sound choices.
Is Green Burial Right for You?
Choosing a green burial is a very personal decision. You might want to consider this path if:
- You care about reducing your environmental footprint;
- You prefer a more natural, simpler approach to death and burial;
- You’re looking for cost-effective alternatives to traditional burials; and/or
- You want your resting place to reflect your values in life.
We encourage open, honest conversations with your family about your preferences. If you’re thinking about pre-planning a funeral, a green burial is a wonderful option to include in your arrangements.
Getting Started with Green Funeral Planning
Late spring and early summer often inspire thoughtful reflection—a natural time to revisit your personal wishes and make plans that reflect your values. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or supporting a loved one, the team at Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services is here to help.
We offer free consultations for funeral pre-planning, including green burial options. We’ll guide you through:
- Understanding green burial regulations in BC;
- Selecting eco-friendly materials and services;
- Documenting your wishes clearly for your family; and
- Coordinating with green burial cemeteries.
Our goal is to make your funeral planning process as compassionate, simple, and values-aligned as possible.
Final Thoughts
Green burials offer a powerful way to honour life—and the earth. As more people seek sustainable options, Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services remains committed to helping families make informed, meaningful choices. Whether you’re passionate about conservation, simplicity, or spiritual connection to nature, this could be the right fit for your journey.
Let this seasonal shift be your inspiration to begin the conversation. When you’re ready, we’re here to guide you.
Interested in learning more about green burial options in your area?
Contact Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services today. Let’s plan a farewell that reflects your values and honours the earth.