For people who are worried about their ecological footprint, being environmentally conscious is not just an option for the living. It is possible to have a funeral that is eco-friendly as well. If you are considering a green funeral, here is what you need to know.  

What Makes a Funeral Environmentally Friendly?

In a traditional funeral, certain services are expected. For instance, embalming and caskets made of non-sustainable materials are commonplace. By contrast, a green funeral does not have these services and instead relies on other means to ensure that the deceased makes as little an impact on the environment as possible.  

Instead of embalming to preserve the body, the body would be preserved with dry ice. You can still have a casket or urn with a green funeral, but it would be made of sustainable materials, like bamboo or cardboard, instead.  

Why Opt for a Green Funeral?

There are several benefits to opting for a green funeral instead of a more traditional one. One of the main benefits is that you can save money. Instead of paying for a traditional casket, you can opt for a non-traditional made of materials such as cardboard. You also do not have to worry about the cost associated with embalming.  

The most obvious reason is that your ecological footprint will be reduced. If you have devoted your life to being environmentally conscious, you do not have to forsake your beliefs or work for the final goodbye. It is a chance to give back to the earth one final time.  

What Should You Know for Planning?

To kickstart your planning, look for a funeral home that has experience with green funeral services. Some funeral homes have packages available that simplify the process of planning the service.  

You also need to make your intentions clear to your family. Your family might have other plans in mind and the idea of a green funeral might seem too far-fetched. However, by discussing your plans with them ahead of time, you can be sure they understand your reasoning and will honor your wishes.  

In addition to these measures, you need to start creating a list of ways you want to incorporate a more green theme to your funeral services. For instance, you can request that your funeral programs are printed on recycled paper and that potted flowers that can be replanted are used for your service. Work with a funeral director like those at Fletcher Funeral Home PA to identify other ways you can incorporate your green theme.