Natural burial (green or woodland burial)

A natural burial, also called a green or woodland burial, takes place in a burial ground kept as natural habitat, in a biodegradable coffin or shroud and without embalming. Graves are usually marked by a tree or wild flowers rather than a headstone, and it often costs less than a traditional burial.

Where it takes place

Natural burial began in Carlisle in the early 1990s, and there are now more than 270 natural burial grounds across the UK. Many local authority cemeteries also have a designated green section. Graves are dug to shallower depths and without concrete vaults, and the memorial is usually a native tree, wild flowers or a small natural stone. The Natural Death Centre, a charity, offers guidance for families planning one.

What it involves

The coffin is made of willow, bamboo, cardboard or seagrass, or a wool shroud is used instead (see coffin and casket). Most natural burial grounds do not accept someone who has been embalmed, because of the chemicals it leaves in the soil, so tell the funeral director at the start that a green burial is planned. Families sometimes also ask mourners for potted plants or a charitable donation in place of cut flowers.

Burial on private land

A natural burial does not have to be in a cemetery. In England and Wales, a burial on private land is lawful with the landowner’s consent, the registrar’s certificate for burial, a burial register kept by the owner, and the Environment Agency’s distances from water: 30 metres from a spring or watercourse, 10 metres from a field drain, and 250 metres from any well or borehole used for drinking water. A new burial ground needs planning permission and a groundwater risk assessment.

What it costs

It is often cheaper than a traditional burial, because fewer materials are involved. Plot and interment fees vary far more by site and region, and as a rough estimate commonly fall between £1,000 and £3,000. Ask the burial ground for its price list in writing.