Green burial is the fastest-growing segment of the US funeral industry. Here's what the options are, where they're available, and how to find a provider.
What Is Green Burial?
Green burial encompasses end-of-life practices designed to minimize environmental impact. This ranges from natural burial (no embalming, no vault, biodegradable container) to newer options like aquamation and human composting.
Natural Burial
In natural burial, the body is buried without embalming, in a shroud or biodegradable casket, without a concrete vault — allowing natural decomposition. Over 100 green burial grounds now operate across the US, certified by the Green Burial Council. It is typically less expensive than conventional burial.
Aquamation (Alkaline Hydrolysis)
Aquamation uses water and an alkaline chemical process to return the body to its natural components. The result is a white, fine powder similar to cremated remains. It uses 90% less energy than flame cremation. As of 2024, it is legal in approximately 25 states.
Human Composting
Human composting (natural organic reduction) transforms the body into soil over 4–6 weeks using a controlled microbial process. Currently legal in Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Vermont, California, and New York. Companies include Recompose (Seattle) and Return Home (Auburn, WA).
How to Find a Provider
The Green Burial Council maintains a searchable directory of certified providers by state. For aquamation and human composting, availability is more limited — check directly with providers in legal states.
