Bioburial

Bioburial, also known as natural burial or green burial, is a method of disposing of a deceased person's body that aims to minimize environmental impact. Unlike traditional embalming and interment in concrete vaults, bioburial seeks to return the body to the earth in a biodegradable manner. This typically involves the use of a biodegradable shroud or casket, such as one made from wood, wicker, or bamboo. Embalming fluids, which can be toxic, are generally avoided in favor of natural decomposition. Grave liners or vaults are also omitted, allowing the body to decompose directly into the soil.

The ecological benefits are a primary driver for bioburial. By avoiding embalming chemicals and resource-intensive burial containers, it reduces pollution and conserves natural resources. It also preserves land that might otherwise be used for conventional cemeteries, which often involve significant landscaping and maintenance. Bioburial sites are often designed to be more naturalistic, resembling meadows or woodlands, and may be managed with minimal intervention to support local ecosystems. While the specific practices can vary, the core principle remains the same: facilitating a natural return to the earth with the least possible environmental disruption.