Making burial arrangements for a loved one is incredibly overwhelming. If a traditional burial isn’t an option, there are several other alternatives to choose from. Consider the following options.

Biodegradable Burial Pods

Ecologically-conscious friends and family members often hope to fulfill their loved one’s last wishes with the burial. Biodegradable burial pods give family and friends the option to honor their loved one’s life by transforming their body into the gift of life. This organic capsule is biodegradable, allowing plant life to flourish above ground.

This option is recommended for anyone that has spent the majority of their life in service to the environment. As traditional burials utilize materials that aren't biodegradable, the option of using an eco-friendly pod will give your loved one the chance to promote sustainability, even in the afterlife.

Flame Cremation

50% of Americans use flame cremation as opposed to traditional burial options. Many people consider cremation as an option as it is an instantaneous process that will transform their loved one into ashes that they can keep with them at all times. Cremation gives family and friends the chance to keep their ashes in keepsakes like a bullet necklace for ashes or an urn. This way, their loved one will always be close to them.

Sea Burial

A burial at sea is a common choice for veterans of the military but can be an option for anyone. Sea burials typically are typically performed with the scattering of cremated ashes but this option is also possible for those interested in a full-body burial. As this form of burial is regulated by the EPA, a specialized burial cloth and casket are required for full-body burials at sea.

Aquamation

Though cremation is another option for loved ones seeking an alternative to traditional burials, the process can seem environmentally destructive and unethical to some. With aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis, the body is gently transformed into dust and ash. In this process, the water and alkali are heated to return the body to the most natural element. After it is dissolved by water, the ash and dust can then return to the earth.

The type of burial chosen for a loved one should be deeply personal to you and your family. Use these suggestions at this difficult time to choose the best way to honor the life of your loved one.