Natural Burial in Illinois: A Sustainable and Eco-friendly Option
Natural burial, also known as green burial, is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial practices. It involves burying the deceased in a way that allows their remains to return to the earth naturally, without the use of embalming fluids, concrete vaults, or metal caskets. In recent years, natural burial has gained popularity as people become more conscious of their environmental impact, even after death.
The Benefits of Natural Burial
1. Environmental Sustainability: Traditional burial practices can have a significant negative impact on the environment. Embalming fluids, which are used to preserve the body, often contain toxic chemicals that can seep into the soil and groundwater. Additionally, the production of metal caskets and concrete vaults contributes to pollution and resource depletion. Natural burial eliminates these harmful effects by allowing the body to decompose naturally, returning nutrients to the soil and promoting a healthier ecosystem.
2. Cost-Effective: Natural burial can be a more affordable option compared to traditional burial practices. Without the need for embalming, expensive caskets, or concrete vaults, the costs associated with a natural burial are significantly reduced. Families can save money while still honoring their loved ones in a sustainable manner.
3. Personal Connection to Nature: Natural burial takes place in designated green cemeteries or sections within traditional cemeteries that adhere to sustainable burial practices. These burial grounds are often situated in serene natural environments, providing a peaceful and tranquil resting place for the departed. Families and friends can visit the burial site and feel a deeper connection to nature and the cycles of life.
Natural Burial Options in Illinois
Illinois offers several natural burial options for those interested in this eco-friendly alternative. Here are some notable choices:
1. Illinois Prairie Cemetery: Located in Rockford, Illinois Prairie Cemetery is one of the first green cemeteries in the state. This cemetery follows sustainable burial practices, including natural landscaping, the use of biodegradable caskets or shrouds, and the prohibition of embalming fluids. Families can choose from various burial options, including individual plots and family plots.
2. Eloise Woods Community Natural Burial Park: Located in Cedar Creek, Illinois, Eloise Woods is a natural burial park that offers a serene and environmentally conscious final resting place. The park allows for natural burials without embalming, concrete vaults, or metal caskets. Families can choose from different burial options, including individual graves and family plots.
3. Green Cemetery at Bohemian National Cemetery: Situated in Chicago, Illinois, the Green Cemetery at Bohemian National Cemetery is a designated section within the larger cemetery that follows sustainable burial practices. It allows for natural burials without the use of embalming fluids, metal caskets, or concrete vaults. Families can contribute to the restoration and preservation of the cemetery’s natural habitat.
Conclusion
Natural burial in Illinois provides a sustainable and eco-friendly option for those seeking an environmentally conscious final resting place. By choosing natural burial, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint, contribute to the preservation of natural habitats, and create a meaningful connection to nature. With several green cemeteries and natural burial parks available, families in Illinois can honor their loved ones while also respecting the planet.