What are the benefits of a green cemetery over a traditional cemetery?
Clearly we see problems at older “traditional” cemeteries. Many have few or no trees, in others, the grounds have been destroyed through the use of herbicides. Drainage problems can occur and herbicide use leads to water pollution. Cemeteries can play an important social and environmental role. 2.2 million acres were lost to development according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation report issued for 1997 through 2001. Everyday, development is taking over the natural environments created over eons. A natural burial takes place in a natural environment where native flora and wildlife flourish. A green cemetery provides habitat for endemic birds and animals, returning lands to their native grasses, flowers and shrubs. A green burial reduces environmental impact and conservation easements preserve our open spaces, important not only to plants and wildlife…we find serenity when close to nature. Interment in a beautiful and natural setting honors those we l
