Green Burial
What does a Green Burial involve?
Green, Natural and Woodland burials are all names for burial in a ground that will revert back to nature. Many people now want to keep their carbon footprint as low as possible in death. One way to do this is to avoid cremation and have a natural burial. In a natural burial ground only a small stone flush with the ground is permitted thus enabling the land to be used for grazing of animals or to be mown a couple of times a year to enable a wild flower meadow to thrive. Ideally the burial ground you choose will do minimal maintenance using fossil fuels. Some natural burial grounds encourage the planting of trees forming a woodland or an orchard using sheep to graze between to keep the grass in check.
A natural burial will require a biodegradable coffin, for example willow or cardboard and clothing should also be of natural fabrics. A shroud can be used instead of a coffin. Sometimes people like to have a shroud of a favourite patchwork quilt or woollen blanket. We have our own very special willow stretcher to enable carrying an enshrouded body to the grave with dignity.
There are several natural burials grounds within a 20 to 30 mile radius of Kidderminster click here to take a look:
Required paperwork
In order to arrange the service we will need to obtain or complete the following documents to submit to the Cemetery:
Registrar’s Certificate for Burial or Cremation
Known as the ‘Green Form’, this is either given to you at your appointment to register the death or sent to us directly following that appointment.
Coroners Order for Burial
This form will the Green Form if the Coroner is involved. This form is usually sent directly to us.
Cemetery Form
Most privately owned cemeteries will require a form to be completed for a new grave or re-opening an existing plot. If you already have a plot and the Exclusive Rights of Burial, you will need to produce the Deed or other evidence in order for the burial to take place.