Natural Burial in the UK

Britain could be leading the way globally in natural burials according to recent research conducted by researchers at Durham and Bath Universities.

With natural, or woodland, burials, people are typically buried in woodland settings in an environmentally friendly, biodegradable coffin or shroud, and without having been embalmed.  This method of burial is becoming increasingly popular in the UK, with over 260 natural burial sites now in operation.

Reasons cited for the increase in natural burial include concerns over the environmental impact of other kinds of funeral,such as cremation, the cost compared with a traditional funeral, the burden on the family of maintaining a traditional grave, and the desire to reconnect with nature.  

The findings have been published as a book, Natural Burial: Traditional-Secular Spiritualities and Funeral Innovation by Professor Davies and Dr Rumble, one that will no doubt soon be gracing the shelves of the Carfax Library!

See the full story here.