Legislation has passed the South Australian Parliament to recognise natural burials. Natural burial can involve use of a biodegradable coffin or wrapping remains in a shroud. Bodies are not embalmed or treated with any chemicals.
While this is obviously a sensitive matter for many, the fact is that mainstream and particularly ‘western’ burial processes leave significant negative legacies for the living and the natural environment. They can also come a significant financial cost. Cremations, which are often thought of as a more environmentally friendly option, use large amounts of energy and release toxins collected in the body into the atmosphere.
Read more: Natural burials now recognised in South Australia and Green goodbyes: The growth of eco-burials
Sources: Al Jazeera and ABC News.
Natural burials were identified as an innovative idea as part of the “100 Flowers Bloom” stream of the New England Sustainability Strategy.
