Green Funeral Options in New Zealand

Green Funerals: Environmentally Conscious End-of-Life Options

What is a Green Funeral?

A green funeral minimizes environmental impact through sustainable practices, biodegradable materials, and conservation of natural resources.

Natural Burial Options

Woodland Burial:

• Burial in natural settings
• Native trees planted as memorials
• No headstones, just natural markers
• Preserves and restores ecosystems

Conservation Burial:

• Part of land conservation efforts
• Protects natural habitats
• Sustainable landscape management
• Educational opportunities

Green Funeral Products

Biodegradable Caskets and Shrouds:

• Cardboard caskets
• Willow or bamboo caskets
• Wool or cotton shrouds
• Mushroom-based burial suits

Natural Urns:

• Biodegradable urns for cremated remains
• Tree pod urns that grow into memorial trees
• Water-soluble urns for scattering at sea
• Coral reef urns that create marine habitats

Eco-Friendly Cremation

Resomation (Alkaline Hydrolysis):

• Uses water and alkali instead of fire
• 90% less energy than traditional cremation
• No emissions or particulates
• Currently available in limited locations

Carbon-Neutral Cremation:

• Offset carbon emissions through tree planting
• Use of renewable energy sources
• Efficient modern crematory equipment

Green Funeral Practices

• No embalming or non-toxic alternatives
• Local sourcing of flowers and materials
• Digital memorial services to reduce travel
• Charitable donations instead of flowers
• Sustainable transportation options

Natural Burial Sites in New Zealand

Several locations across New Zealand offer natural burial options:

• Natural Burial New Zealand locations
• Some traditional cemeteries have natural sections
• Private woodland burial grounds
• Farm burial sites (with proper permits)

Costs of Green Funerals

Green funerals can be more affordable than traditional options:

• Simple caskets: $300-$1,500
• Natural burial plots: $1,000-$4,000
• No expensive vaults or monuments required
• Reduced need for professional services

Planning a Green Funeral

1. Research natural burial sites in your area
2. Find funeral directors experienced with green burials
3. Choose biodegradable products
4. Consider transportation and ceremony options
5. Document your wishes clearly