Green Funeral Choices Gain Traction in Australia

Australians are exploring more environmentally friendly deathcare options as traditional methods like cremation and burial are recognized for their significant ecological impact. Cremation, chosen by most Australians, releases substantial greenhouse gases, comparable to driving a vehicle long distances, and can even vaporize mercury from dental fillings. Traditional burials also pose environmental concerns due to chemical leaching and maintenance emissions.

There is growing interest in alternative farewells, including natural burials where the deceased is placed in a biodegradable coffin or shroud, allowing natural decomposition into the soil. Newer technologies such as aquamation, or alkaline hydrolysis, use water to break down the body, leaving behind powdered bones. Human composting, or terramation, is also being considered, with a bill recently introduced in NSW parliament to permit this process, which turns bodies into compost.

Making traditional funerals more sustainable is also possible. Choosing coffins made from untreated pine, cardboard, or wicker instead of lacquered wood with plastic components can drastically reduce emissions. Industry professionals note that many within the funeral sector are driving the shift towards sustainability, viewing it as good business practice. Openly discussing funeral preferences with family before the need arises is crucial, as quick decisions made during grief often lead to the default, more environmentally damaging, traditional options.