Cremation is the most popular postmortem choice among Americans, but eco-friendly burial options are gaining traction as sustainable alternatives.
Cremation has emerged as the preferred method for postmortem treatment among Americans, but it comes with environmental concerns. The process typically involves burning fossil fuels, which can release toxic gases into the atmosphere.
In a recent segment on WAMU’s “Health Hub,” Paula Span, a columnist for “The New Old Age,” discussed the growing interest in eco-friendly burial alternatives. These methods not only address environmental concerns but also offer a more affordable option compared to traditional funerals.
Green burials are becoming increasingly popular as they eliminate the use of toxic embalming chemicals, steel caskets, and concrete vaults. Instead, they allow the body to decompose naturally, returning to the earth without the environmental impact associated with conventional burial practices.
The range of green burial methods varies significantly. Some options are more elaborate, such as “human composting” and water cremation, while others are as simple as using a biodegradable pine box. These alternatives appeal to individuals who are environmentally conscious and looking for ways to minimize their ecological footprint even in death.
During her appearance on “Health Hub,” Span highlighted the dual motivations behind the shift towards eco-friendly burials: environmental awareness and economic considerations. As more people become aware of the environmental impact of traditional burial practices, the demand for sustainable options is likely to grow.
Jackson Sinnenberg contributed to this report, emphasizing the importance of exploring these alternatives as society continues to grapple with the implications of end-of-life choices.
KFF Health News, a national newsroom dedicated to in-depth journalism on health issues, produced this story. It is part of KFF, an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.
Source: Original article