According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the cremation rate was 56% in the year 2020. That is an increase of 8% since the year 2015. Why are more people choosing cremation instead of traditional burial services?
While there are several different reasons why cremation may be best for you or a family member, one of the main reasons is because cremation can be better for the environment.
Are you an environmentally friendly person considering cremation? If so, keep reading to learn more about the environmental benefits of cremation.
Avoid Embalming Chemicals
The purpose of embalming is to preserve the body for relatives to view. If you choose to have cremation services instead of a traditional funeral service and burial, you can avoid using embalming chemicals.
The process of embalming uses a lot of harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde. When formaldehyde leaks into the environment, it pollutes both land and water. Formaldehyde can have a lasting effect on plants and animals.
No Casket Required
In addition to avoiding embalming, having a cremation also allows you to avoid having a casket. Caskets are made from natural resources such as metal, wood, and stone.
By not using a casket, you are preserving those resources, using less energy, and saving money!
Save Land Space
Did you know that many parts of the world are running out of burial space? The earth only has a limited amount of land, so eventually, we will run out.
Another one of the best cremation benefits is that it does not require one to take up any extra space. The remains from cremation are either scattered or kept in an urn.
Eco-Friendly Urn Options
Speaking of urns, did you know that there are eco-friendly urn options? If you or a loved one likes the idea of being buried, that are biodegradable urns that are great for the environment, and they don’t take up land space.
Some urns work as planters for trees or flowers. This is a great type of burial for anyone that loves nature.
Scattering Ashes Does Not Harm the Environment
While some people like the idea of burial, others will prefer to scatter their ashes. The good news is that scattering ash has no negative effects on the environment.
If you or a loved one would like to have your ashes scattered, be sure to follow the guidelines from the EPA. For example, ashes scattered at sea must be done at least three miles from the shore.
Environmental Benefits of Cremation
Cremation has grown in popularity over the past five years. One of the main reasons why is the environmental benefits of cremation. Cremation prevents the use of harmful embalming chemicals, caskets, and extra land space.
Are you considering cremation for yourself or a loved one? If so, check out our cremation services page to learn more about cremation options in Kennet Square and West Grove, PA!
Our family-owned funeral homes, Kuzo and Foulk, are here to help the Kennett Square, West Grove, and surrounding PA communities. Whether that’s with preplanning, a death in the family, cremation, a casket, the funeral service, or a funeral director, we’re here for you. Contact us for all of your funeral needs.