A: No, embalming is not required by law in any U.S. state under normal circumstances. The Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule explicitly states that funeral homes cannot tell you embalming is required when it’s not. The only exceptions are specific public health situations (such as certain communicable diseases) or if you’re transporting a body across state or international borders with significant delays. Most states allow unembalmed burials and viewings as long as the body is kept refrigerated and buried or cremated within a reasonable timeframe (typically 24-72 hours). If a funeral home insists embalming is required, ask them to show you the specific law in writing.

A: Green burial typically costs $2,000 to $5,000 less than traditional burial. A conventional burial with embalming, metal casket, and vault averages $7,000 to $12,000 or more. In contrast, a green burial with a biodegradable casket or shroud, no vault, and no embalming typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. Natural burial grounds often charge lower plot fees ($1,000-$3,000) compared to traditional cemeteries ($2,000-$10,000+). The savings come from eliminating expensive caskets ($2,000-$10,000), concrete vaults ($1,500-$3,000), and embalming services ($500-$800). Some families save even more by choosing simple shrouds ($100-$300) instead of caskets.

A: Aquamation, also called alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is a process that uses water, alkaline chemicals (potassium hydroxide), heat, and pressure to accelerate natural decomposition. Unlike flame cremation which uses fire and reaches temperatures of 1,400-1,800°F, aquamation uses water heated to around 300°F in a pressurized chamber. The process takes 6-8 hours (compared to 2-3 hours for flame cremation) and returns bone fragments similar to traditional cremation, plus a sterile liquid byproduct that’s safely returned to the water treatment system. Aquamation uses 90% less energy than flame cremation, produces no direct carbon emissions, eliminates mercury pollution from dental fillings, and leaves a 25% larger volume of remains for families.

A: Yes, absolutely. You can have a viewing without embalming using several methods. Refrigeration can preserve a body for several days, allowing time for family to gather for a viewing. Dry ice can be used for shorter-term preservation (24-48 hours) and is completely chemical-free. Some families choose same-day or next-day viewings before natural decomposition becomes noticeable. You can also opt for a closed-casket service or memorial service with photos instead of a traditional viewing. Many green funeral homes and death care professionals specialize in preparing unembalmed bodies for viewings using gentle washing, natural positioning, and appropriate clothing. The key is planning the viewing within 24-72 hours of death and keeping the body cool.

A: Biodegradable caskets are sturdy enough to safely transport and bury a body, though they’re designed to decompose rather than resist decay indefinitely. They’re made from materials like bamboo, willow, seagrass, pine, or recycled paper, and can support the same weight as traditional caskets during services and burial. However, they won’t last decades or centuries like metal caskets with concrete vaults. That’s actually the point: these caskets typically decompose within 5-15 years, allowing the body to return naturally to the earth. They meet all safety requirements for handling and burial. Many families find them beautiful and appreciate the craftsmanship. If you need to transport a body long distances, biodegradable caskets work just fine, though some funeral homes may recommend additional support for shipping.

A: It depends on your location, but options are expanding rapidly. Dedicated green burial grounds and conservation cemeteries exist in most states and only allow natural burials (aff) without vaults, embalming, or non-biodegradable materials. Many traditional cemeteries now offer “hybrid” or “natural” burial sections that allow green burials within conventional cemetery grounds. Some religious cemeteries (particularly Jewish and Muslim cemeteries) have always practiced natural burial and welcome green burials. A few traditional cemeteries remain resistant and require vaults and embalming, but these are becoming less common. You can search for green burial grounds through the Green Burial Council’s provider directory. If you have a family plot in a traditional cemetery, call and ask about their policies. Many are willing to accommodate green burials even if it’s not their standard practice.

A: Start by searching the Green Burial Council’s directory of certified green funeral providers at greenburialcouncil.org. You can also call local funeral homes directly and ask specific questions: “Do you offer refrigeration as an alternative to embalming?” “Can you help facilitate green burial?” “Do you provide biodegradable caskets or shrouds?” “What are your least expensive and most eco-friendly options?” Pay attention to their response. Green-friendly funeral homes will answer enthusiastically and provide detailed information. Resistant funeral homes may claim things aren’t possible when they actually are, or they may try to upsell you on unnecessary services. You can also ask about their relationship with local green burial grounds. Some areas have funeral homes that specialize in home funerals and family-directed care, which tend to be very eco-friendly. Online reviews mentioning “natural burial,” “green options,” or “flexible” services are good signs.

A: Embalming chemicals, primarily formaldehyde, eventually leach into the surrounding soil and groundwater. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that doesn’t break down easily in the environment. Studies have found elevated formaldehyde levels in soil and groundwater near cemeteries with high rates of embalmed burials. Over time, the chemicals seep from the body as it decomposes (or as the casket deteriorates), contaminating the local ecosystem. This is compounded by the 800,000+ gallons of formaldehyde-based embalming fluid buried in U.S. cemeteries each year. The concrete vaults used in traditional burials eventually crack (typically within 50-100 years), allowing these chemicals to escape. This is one of the primary environmental concerns driving the green burial movement. In contrast, unembalmed bodies in green burials decompose naturally and actually enrich the soil with nutrients.

A: Most religions either encourage or permit green burial. Jewish and Islamic traditions have practiced natural burial for thousands of years, requiring quick burial without embalming and using simple shrouds or plain wooden caskets. Many Christian denominations support green burial as consistent with “ashes to ashes, dust to dust” theology. Catholic teaching permits green burial, though some dioceses have specific requirements. Buddhist and Hindu traditions generally support natural decomposition, though cremation is more common in these faiths (and aquamation is gaining acceptance as a gentler form of cremation). Some religious groups, like Baha’i, specifically prohibit embalming and require burial within 24 hours. The best approach is to consult with your specific religious community’s leaders, as practices vary. Most faith traditions are more flexible than people assume, especially when environmental stewardship aligns with their core values.