Just as there continues to be increasing interest in generating less waste, less toxic contamination and living more eco friendly, this philosophy is now being extended to end-of-life considerations for green burials.
This is not a new concept and is legal throughout the United States. To literally return to the earth in a respectful and quiet manner should be an available option as someone’s final wish.
Being buried in a totally biodegradable casket of wood or cardboard, or simply wrapped in a shroud of natural fibers and quietly laid to rest is a beautiful thing to some. It feels horrific to others. It flies in the face of modern day traditions and some established spiritual beliefs.
Establishing green burial sites can be challenging as individual town cemetery policies and politics dictate what is allowed. But policies, politics and people’s feelings can and do change. Anyone considering the idea of a green burial should not be deterred.
Senior College plans to have guest speaker Chuck Lakin address green burials and alternative funeral options. He is an advisor to the Maine organization, Last Things: Alternatives at the End of Life.
A tentative date of Oct. 4 has been set. This will be open to the public and an invaluable opportunity to learn more about green burials.
Monica Mann, Woodstock
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