Eco-Friendly Funerals

Incorporating Eco-Friendly Practices in Funerals

More and more people are choosing to live in ways that are kinder to the planet — and now, many are thinking about how they can leave it in a gentler way too. As a funeral celebrant, I’m increasingly being asked about eco-friendly options and how we can create a meaningful ceremony while also considering the environment.

In this blog, I’m sharing ways to make funerals greener, while still honouring a life with dignity, warmth and love.

Why Eco-Funerals?

It’s no surprise that interest in eco-friendly funerals is growing. Many people want their final farewell to reflect the values they held in life. For those who cared deeply about sustainability, nature, or reducing waste, it makes sense that these ideas would carry through into their funeral plans.

There’s also a broader awareness now of the environmental impact of traditional funerals — from the chemicals used in embalming to the materials in coffins and headstones, and even the carbon footprint of cremation. While not every element can be changed, there are plenty of thoughtful choices that can reduce a funeral’s impact.

Natural Burial Grounds

One of the most well-known eco-friendly options is a natural burial. These sites are usually meadows, woodlands, or green fields where the body is buried in a biodegradable coffin or shroud without embalming. Instead of a traditional headstone, families may plant a tree or place a wooden marker.

The beauty of natural burial grounds is that they not only offer a more sustainable resting place but also create peaceful, natural spaces for reflection. Many families tell me how comforting it feels to know their loved one is resting somewhere that feels alive and growing.

Greener Cremation Choices

While cremation is still very common, it does have a significant carbon footprint. However, there are ways to make it greener. Choosing a simple coffin made from sustainable materials like wicker, cardboard, or untreated wood is a good start.

You can also consider holding the funeral service and cremation at the same location to reduce travel, or encourage guests to car-share or use public transport. Some families opt for direct cremation followed by a memorial service, which can also reduce environmental impact while still allowing time for gathering and remembrance.

Eco-Friendly Coffins and Urns

There’s a growing range of biodegradable coffins and urns made from materials like bamboo, willow, banana leaf, and even recycled cardboard. These not only reduce waste but can also be incredibly beautiful and meaningful.

I’ve seen families decorate cardboard coffins with handwritten messages, drawings, or pressed flowers — making them truly personal tributes. Biodegradable urns that can be planted with a tree are also becoming more popular, turning ashes into a living legacy.

Flowers and Decorations

Traditional floral arrangements often involve plastic, floral foam, and imported flowers with a high carbon footprint. For a more sustainable option, choose locally grown, seasonal flowers or pick blooms from your own garden.

Some families create wreaths using greenery gathered on a favourite walk or decorate the space with potted plants that can later be replanted. Even skipping flowers altogether and using candles, stones, or natural materials can create a simple, peaceful setting.

Printed Materials and Memorial Keepsakes

Order of service booklets, printed readings, and photo cards are often a part of the day, but they can quickly become waste. One alternative is to share materials digitally or keep printing to a minimum. If you do want printed items, recycled paper or seed paper (which can be planted later) are lovely options.

Eco-friendly keepsakes like seed packets, small trees, or wildflower bombs can be given to guests as a way to remember a loved one while also giving something back to nature.

Meaningful Without Waste

An eco-friendly funeral doesn’t have to be minimal or lacking in warmth. In fact, many of the greenest choices are also the most meaningful. Holding a service outdoors in a natural space, encouraging guests to share stories instead of bringing flowers, or using a handmade urn or shroud — all of these bring authenticity and heart.

It’s about finding the balance between what matters most and what matters to the planet. As with every ceremony I create, it starts with listening to the family and understanding what feels right for them — practically, emotionally and spiritually.

Small Changes, Big Difference

Not every funeral can be completely green — and that’s okay. Even making one or two small changes can make a difference. The key is being thoughtful and intentional with the choices you make.

For some families, that might mean planting a tree in memory instead of sending flowers. For others, it might mean using natural materials, holding a service close to home, or skipping unnecessary extras.

Looking Ahead

As we become more conscious of our impact on the world, I believe we’ll continue to see growth in eco-funeral options. There’s already so much creativity and care being poured into these ceremonies, and I find it incredibly hopeful.

A green funeral isn’t just about sustainability — it’s about legacy. It’s a final act of care, reflecting the values of the life that’s being honoured.