Choosing a green burial in Maryland provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional interment methods. It focuses on simplicity and environmental sustainability. This approach honors the natural cycle of life and death, allowing individuals to rest in harmony with the earth. A natural burial reduces environmental impact while offering families a meaningful and personal way to say goodbye. In this guide, we’ll explore where you can have a green burial in Maryland and what to expect during the process.
Understanding Green Burial
A green burial, also known as a natural burial, inters the body in a way that allows natural decomposition. This method avoids embalming fluids, metal caskets, or concrete vaults. The goal is to return the body to the earth naturally, reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional burials.
Key Characteristics of a Green Burial
- No Embalming: The body is not treated with chemicals, avoiding environmental harm.
- Biodegradable Materials: Only biodegradable caskets, shrouds, and urns are used.
- Natural Burial Grounds: Sites do not use synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
- Minimal Environmental Impact: This method promotes ecological balance and reduces carbon emissions.
- Simple and Natural Process: The burial process allows for natural decomposition, ensuring that the body integrates into the earth without artificial intervention.
- Conservation-Focused: Many green burial sites are part of conservation efforts to preserve natural landscapes and ecosystems.
Green Burial Options in Maryland
Maryland offers several certified green burial sites for those seeking an eco-friendly option. Below are three notable locations:
1. Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery & Arboretum
- Location: Windsor Mill, Maryland
- Overview: The first exclusively natural burial cemetery in Maryland, featuring rolling hills, meadows, and wooded areas.
- Why Choose Serenity Ridge: Provides personalized burial plots surrounded by nature and supports various spiritual and cultural traditions.
- Additional Features: The site promotes biodiversity and offers guided burial planning services.
2. Bestgate Memorial Park
- Location: Annapolis, Maryland
- Overview: Features a peaceful wooded setting and a dedicated natural burial section.
- Why Choose Bestgate: Managed by a licensed funeral establishment, ensuring professional service.
- Additional Features: Allows families to plant native trees or flowers in remembrance.
3. Reflection Park
- Location: Silver Spring, Maryland (under development)
- Overview: A non-profit, multi-faith natural burial ground with plans to offer eco-conscious interment options.
- Why Choose Reflection Park: Supports a community-driven approach and respects diverse traditions.
- Additional Features: Plans to integrate walking trails and reflective spaces for visitors.
What to Expect During the Green Burial Process
A green burial follows several key steps. Here’s what families can expect:
1. Preparation of the Body
- No embalming is used; instead, non-toxic preservation methods, like refrigeration or dry ice, are common.
- The body is dressed in biodegradable clothing or shrouds.
- Families may participate in the preparation process, fostering a deeper connection.
- Some families choose home vigils before the burial, allowing for a more personal farewell.
2. Casket or Shroud Selection
Families choose from biodegradable options, such as:
- Wooden Caskets: Made from untreated wood.
- Woven Caskets: Created using natural materials like wicker.
- Shrouds: Cloth coverings made from natural fibers.
- Cardboard Caskets: A cost-effective and fully biodegradable option.
- No Casket: Some cemeteries allow direct burial with only a shroud.
3. Burial Site and Marker
- Graves are dug to 3.5 to 4 feet, allowing optimal decomposition.
- Markers use natural elements like fieldstones or native plants.
- Some cemeteries plant trees in place of traditional grave markers, contributing to local ecosystems.
- GPS coordinates are sometimes used for grave identification rather than physical markers.
4. Ceremony and Memorial Options
- Ceremonies can be personalized to reflect beliefs and traditions.
- Many burial sites offer inter-denominational services.
- Families may incorporate natural elements, such as flower seed scattering or tree planting, to create a living tribute.
- Handwritten notes, biodegradable keepsakes, and native plant arrangements are often used as tributes.
Benefits of Choosing a Green Burial
Green burials provide meaningful benefits:
1. Environmental Sustainability
- Reduced Impact: No embalming fluids or non-biodegradable materials.
- Conservation Efforts: Burial sites preserve native plants and wildlife.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: Without concrete vaults or metal caskets, less energy is used in production and transportation.
- Promotes Wildlife Habitats: Many green burial sites protect local ecosystems and endangered species.
2. Cost Savings
- Lower Costs: No embalming, concrete vaults, or elaborate caskets.
- Simplified Process: Fewer unnecessary expenses.
- Affordable Cemetery Fees: Many green burial plots cost less than conventional gravesites.
- Minimal Maintenance Fees: Natural burial sites require less upkeep, reducing long-term costs.
3. Personalized and Meaningful Farewells
- Families can create unique ceremonies.
- Burial sites often allow memorial plantings, like trees or flowers.
- The simplicity of the process encourages a deeper, more intimate farewell.
- Provides a serene and peaceful resting place surrounded by nature.
Planning Your Green Burial in Maryland
Proper planning ensures a smooth and meaningful green burial. Follow these steps:
1. Choose a Burial Site
- Visit potential burial grounds to find one that fits your values.
- Ask about burial plots, maintenance, and accommodations.
- Consider whether you prefer a wooded, meadow, or open landscape setting.
- Check site-specific regulations regarding markers and ceremonies.
2. Work with a Funeral Home
- Choose a funeral home experienced in green burials.
- Funeral directors help with body preparation and documentation.
- Ensure the funeral home supports biodegradable options.
- Inquire about pre-planning services to ease the process for loved ones.
3. Plan the Ceremony
- Personalize readings, music, or rituals.
- Consider eco-friendly touches, like tree planting.
- Invite family and friends to participate in the burial, making it a meaningful experience.
- Discuss long-term care and visitation options.
4. Complete Necessary Paperwork
- Obtain permits and death certificates.
- Review cemetery guidelines.
- Ensure proper documentation is in place for the chosen burial site.
Conclusion
A green burial in Maryland allows individuals to honor their loved ones in an environmentally conscious way. With several certified burial sites available, families can find a location that aligns with their values. Choosing a green burial ensures a lasting legacy of sustainability, fostering a meaningful connection to the natural world.