How to Have an Environmentally Friendly Cremation and Memorial Service
For many people, one of the concerns they have when deciding on the proper funerary arrangements is the toll they will take on the environment. It is well known that cremation is the more environmentally friendly option, but you can still do even more if this is a concern. When you begin looking for a cremations provider, be sure to know if they offer the kind of “green” options you want. There are a number of things to look for and to consider when planning a cremation and memorial service that puts less strain on the environment.
The kind of cremation you choose for yourself or a loved one is the first thing to keep in mind. Direct cremation is better than burial because there is no embalming fluid that will seep into the ground or metal parts from caskets that will be left behind, but it does release carbon into the air. This is where bio-cremation can be the better choice. This type of cremation is done with water with a high alkaline content instead of fire, which means that it does not release carbon into the air. It also creates more cremated remains than direct cremation, which for some people is a plus.
If you want to scatter ashes or to bury the remains in an urn, choose one that is biodegradable. Urns that are made of clay, seaweed, salt, wicker, and many other materials, will easily disintegrate once they are buried in the ground or water. The rule of thumb is to choose urns that do not have any metal parts, since these will not disintegrate.
When planning a memorial service that is environmentally friendly, one of the things that can have the most impact is to choose not to decorate the location with flowers. Or, if you still want to have flowers, have people bring in wild ones that do not put any kind of strain on the environment. Another thing to consider is the kind of food you will serve at the reception that usually follows a funeral or memorial service. To keep it “green”, opt for organic options as well as vegetarian or even vegan foods. If you have disposable plates and utensils, then be sure to choose those that are made of recyclable materials and not plastic. It can also be a great idea to have a recycling bin in the reception.
All of these tips can allow you to have a cremation and memorial service that is environmentally friendly. The right company that provides cremations in Poinciana, FL will be able to assist you in the planning of all of this. Be sure to ask if the company you choose offers bio-cremation as an option, since not all crematoriums and funeral homes do. Reach out to a business like Osceola Memory Gardens Cemetery, Funeral Homes & Crematory. They are located at 1717 Old Boggy Creek Rd Kissimmee, FL 34744, and you can speak to an expert by calling (407) 847-2494.