Sunrise in the forest

Conventional vs. Natural Burial

Natural Burial

Before the Civil War, bodies were buried in a traditional, natural manner, with minimal impact on the environment and in a way that allowed for natural decomposition. In natural burial, bodies are laid to rest in the active soil layer, without embalming, using a non-toxic and biodegradable casket or shroud, and without the use of a concrete vault. This allows for natural decomposition and supports the complex web of health soil, nourishing plant life for generations to come.

Conventional Burial

In this country, the initiative to preserve bodies after death began during the Civil War with the need to transport soldiers’ bodies before burial. The process of using embalming fluid (a known carcinogen), caskets made of metal, tropical hardwoods and varnishes, and concrete grave liners became commonplace. These practices and products staved off the natural process of decomposition and made it easier to mow around gravesites on the manicured lawns of the cemeteries. Each year in the U.S., 20 million board feet of hardwood, 1.6 million tons of concrete, and 4.3 million gallons of embalming fluid are buried in conventional cemeteries. Conventional burials have a negative impact on the environment and contribute to climate change.

conventional cemetery filled with concrete graves and headstones

Negative environmental impacts of conventional burial

A natural burial at Great River is a stark contrast to conventional burial, offering a simpler, more sustainable approach, a final act of environmental kindness that fosters a deeper connection to nature.

Natural Burial is Traditional

The modern movement to return to traditional burial practices began in the 1990s and has grown as more and more people evaluate their relationship to the earth and how their choices about death affect the natural environment. These traditions date back to ancient times, and many people around the globe have always been buried this way.

hilltop meadow with wildflowers and picnic table at Great River Natural Burial

Natural Burial Allows a Closer Connection to Nature

Natural burial cemeteries are often located in natural settings, which are left in their natural state, with minimal landscaping. Burial density is limited and other guidelines are followed, as established by the Green Burial Council. Memorial stones are typically optional and are native stones when chosen. Some natural burial cemeteries, like Great River Natural Burial, allow for the planting of trees or other vegetation in memory of the deceased.

Natural burial is a way of honoring a loved one’s life while also being mindful of the impact that conventional burial practices can have on the environment. It offers a simpler and more sustainable approach to burial and allows for a closer connection to nature.