Natural disposition options
Green & natural burial
Green burial — also called natural burial — is a way to return to the earth gently, without embalming chemicals, metal caskets, or concrete vaults. It is the way humans have been buried throughout history, and it is experiencing a quiet revival.
What makes a burial “green”
- No embalming — or temporary, non-formaldehyde preservation only
- Biodegradable container — shroud, wicker, untreated wood, or cardboard
- No concrete vault — allows natural decomposition
- Shallow grave — typically 3–4 feet for natural burial grounds
- No synthetic materials — natural fibers for clothing and shroud
- Native plantings — or unobtrusive natural markers, not headstones
Why families choose green burial
For many families, green burial is not simply an environmental choice — it is a philosophical one. It means choosing simplicity over spectacle, presence over preservation, and return over resistance.
A green burial can also be significantly less expensive than a conventional funeral. No embalming, no metal casket, no concrete liner. Just the person, a shroud, and the earth.
Many families combine a home funeral with a green burial — caring for the body at home for a few days, then transporting to a natural burial ground for interment. This is both legal and deeply meaningful.
Types of green burial
Home burial
Burial on private land, in a location meaningful to the family. Allowed in most states with a disposition permit. The body is placed in a shroud or biodegradable container, returned directly to the earth.
Best for: Rural and suburban families with private land, in permitted states.
Natural burial ground
A dedicated cemetery that prohibits concrete vaults and embalming, allows shrouds or biodegradable caskets, and maintains the land as a natural meadow or woodland. The Green Burial Council certifies three tiers of providers.
Best for: Families seeking simplicity and a meaningful, natural setting.
Conservation burial
Burial in protected natural land — a nature preserve, wildlife corridor, or conservation easement. A portion of the burial fee supports ongoing land conservation. The grave is marked with a native plant or natural stone.
Best for: Families with a deep connection to wild land and conservation.
Aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis)
A water-based alternative to cremation that uses a gentle alkaline solution to return the body to its mineral components. Uses significantly less energy than flame cremation and produces no direct carbon emissions. The remaining bone minerals are returned to the family as a fine, white powder.
Best for: Families seeking cremation with a lower environmental footprint.
Human composting (natural organic reduction)
The body is placed in a vessel with organic material — wood chips, alfalfa, straw — and over approximately 30 days gently transforms into rich, fertile soil. Now legal in Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Vermont, California, New York, Nevada, Arizona, Maryland, Minnesota, Delaware, Hawaii, New Mexico, and others.
Best for: Families who find meaning in returning to the earth as living soil.
Considering home burial?
Before choosing home burial, consider:
- State law — home burial is permitted in most but not all states. Check your state guide.
- Local zoning — even where state law allows it, local ordinances may restrict private burial. Contact your county health department.
- Property records — consult a land attorney about noting the grave in your deed, since this affects future sale.
- Water sources — most regulations require the grave to be set back at least 100–150 feet from wells, streams, or water tables.
- Grave depth — requirements vary but typically specify 4 to 5 feet from top of the container to grade.
Finding a natural burial ground
The Green Burial Council certifies burial providers at three levels: Registered (funeral homes that offer green options), Hybrid (cemeteries that offer a natural section), and Natural (dedicated natural burial grounds with no conventional options). Look for their certification mark.
When speaking with a provider, ask about their container requirements, whether a family can be present at graveside, whether you can prepare and transport the body yourself, and how the grave will be marked over time.
Resources
NHFA
National Home Funeral Alliance — advocacy, education, and state-specific support for families.
Visit NHFA →Green Burials
Biodegradable shrouds, natural burial products, and thoughtful guidance for families.
Explore options →Titan Casket
Caskets at fair prices — including wooden and eco-friendly options — shipped directly to families.
Browse caskets →Nolo Legal
Plain-language guides on wills, burial rights, estate planning, and end-of-life law.
Legal resources →Some links above are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no cost to you.