What Does a Green Burial Look Like in Connecticut?
A death occurs and the funeral parlor receives a phone call.
“Mom wanted a green burial, can you help us?” the voice nervously asks, unsure of themselves.
What do you do as a funeral director?
Are you able to ‘direct’ this type of arrangement?
Do you know which local cemeteries, if any, offer this option?
Why are baskets replacing caskets?
And does your casket supplier produce an eco-friendly alternative?
Wake up, folks. Did you know that nearly 54 percent of Americans are considering a green burial, and 72 percent of cemeteries are reporting an increased demand (according to a survey released in 2018 from NFDA) The future of the burial industry is looking pretty green, and the law of supply and demand will tell us that we need to be prepared to have these conversations.
Here you will find a step by step list of the most important elements of a green burial vs. a traditional burial as well as some helpful tips to add a special, personalized touch to a natural ceremony.
Let’s start with the first call. One of the first questions asked for a traditional burial at a traditional funeral home would be asking for permission to embalm. In the case of green burial, there is absolutely no embalming allowed. There are some ‘embalming’ chemicals on the market that claim to be non-toxic and eco-friendly and I’m sure they’re great. However, the definition of embalming is literally to preserve human remains…which is the exact opposite goal of a green burial. If loved ones want to hold a wake or viewing, they may do so at their homes or in a funeral home, if allowed by the owner. Home wakes have become a pretty normal and popular choice. Natural fragrances or oils may be used to help create a more floral scent, however, if the remains are properly stored in refrigeration prior to services, there shouldn’t even be a need for any of that.
A simple washing, brushing the hair, and dressing the remains is acceptable, and encouraged. Family may choose to participate in this process as a way of performing one last act for their loved ones. Once the decedent is bathed and dressed, you may be wondering what they will be placed in…if not a casket? There are hundreds of options online for purchase that advertise natural breakdown, biodegradable features, etc. In my opinion, the best option is no casket at all. Maybe a shroud wrapped around the body a few times, but nothing over the top. Absolutely no metal or sealers. If your normal casket supplier doesn’t have any suitable options, you may have to find a vendor online. Another obvious consideration would be finding out the cemetery requirements/restrictions. Which leads us into that whole category….
Where in the world do you find a green cemetery? In short, the answer is not in Connecticut. There are several cemeteries who have small sections of their properties designated for green burial, but no true, all-in, real deal green cemetery…yet! No headstones, no sealed caskets, no concrete grave liners, no preservatives, and a shallower burial depth are all things to ask about if you’re involved in a green burial. Anything that would get in the way of a truly natural decomposition and reconnect with nature would ultimately go against the green burial way.
The best option currently in Connecticut for a green burial, would be choosing a hybrid cemetery (has a section dedicated to green burial) and a funeral home that is open minded and flexible enough to work with you throughout the process, as things will likely come up and change as it is not an overly common practice in CT. When planning a green burial you have a special opportunity to truly connect to nature. Think of the songs you might like to have played…perhaps live acoustic guitar at the graveside. All the flowers that could be incorporated...If you have any pets, alive or dead, they can be included. Maybe have an outdoor ceremony under moonlight…the possibilities are endless. Having things arranged well in advance can help ensure your wishes go according to plan.
Below is a list of the cemeteries in CT that currently offer green burial options:
Wooster Cemetery – Danbury, CT
Norma - 203-748-8529
Fountain Hills Cemetery – Deep River, CT
Richard Forristall – 860-526-4752
Hillside Cemetery - Wilton, CT
Pamela Brown – 203-762-5591; pam@wiltoncongregational.org
Grove Cemetery - Naugatuck, CT
Olivia/Kyle - 203-729-3037; superintendent@grovenaugatuck.com
Hanover Green Burial Ground - Hanover, CT
Jenn Benson - 860-428-7818
Lebanon Green Burial Ground - Waterman Rd., Lebanon
Contact: 860-642-6100
*Open only to current and former residents of Lebanon*
