What Makes a Burial Truly Green?
As more people seek ways to honour their loved ones while caring for the planet, the term “green burial” has become more visible — but not always more meaningful. Unfortunately, not every “green” burial option is as sustainable as it seems.
So what makes a burial truly green?
At Sanctum Shrouds, we believe that a genuinely eco-friendly burial respects the natural cycles of life and death. It uses materials and practices that return the body gently to the earth without unnecessary harm. In this post, we’ll explore what defines a true natural burial, how to spot greenwashing, and what to look for when making end-of-life choices rooted in care.
1. No Embalming or Toxic Chemicals
True green burials avoid embalming fluids, which contain formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals. These substances can leach into the soil and disrupt ecosystems. In a natural burial, the body is simply washed, dressed, and laid to rest — free of synthetic preservatives.
2. Biodegradable Burial Materials
A genuinely green burial uses only materials that safely break down in the earth. This includes:
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Burial shrouds made from natural fibres like organic cotton, hemp, linen or wool
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Simple, untreated wood caskets without metal hardware or synthetic linings
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No plastic liners, varnishes, or chemical finishes
Explore our biodegradable burial shrouds made from plant-based fabrics and botanically dyed in small batches.
3. No Burial Vault or Concrete Liner
Traditional cemeteries often require a burial vault — a concrete or plastic container that surrounds the casket to prevent ground settling. While common, these vaults are environmentally damaging to produce and serve no ecological purpose.
In a true green burial, the body is placed directly into the ground (with a shroud or simple casket), allowing for natural decomposition and nutrient return to the soil.
4. Burial in a Natural or Conservation Cemetery
Where the burial takes place matters just as much as how.
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Natural cemeteries: Maintain the land in its natural state with native vegetation, no mowing, fertilizers, or pesticides.
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Conservation cemeteries: Go a step further by actively preserving and restoring the ecosystem, often in partnership with land trusts.
5. Minimal Carbon Footprint
A truly eco-friendly burial considers not just what goes into the ground, but also the full lifecycle:
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Local sourcing of burial goods
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Low-impact transportation
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Handcrafted or small-batch items made close to home
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Avoidance of mass-produced or imported synthetic products
This is one reason Sanctum’s shrouds are handmade in Canada using natural, biodegradable materials — minimizing waste while honouring every stage of the process.
6. A Return to the Earth — Naturally
A green burial is about more than reducing impact. It's a ritual of return: of letting the body become part of the earth again, nourishing life and closing the loop with reverence and intention. This deep ecological respect is what truly defines green burial — not just the absence of harm, but the presence of care.
How to Know If a Burial Option is Truly Natural
Watch for terms like “eco-friendly” or “green” being used loosely. Ask:
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Does the cemetery or funeral home follow Green Burial Council or GBSC standards?
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Are the materials fully biodegradable — or just “less harmful”?
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Are there concrete vaults, embalming, or hidden synthetic elements involved?
As with any meaningful choice, trust your intuition and ask questions. True green burial should feel grounded, clear, and aligned with your values.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a green burial is a powerful, compassionate act — one that cares for your loved ones and the earth they leave behind. Whether you're planning ahead for yourself or supporting someone you love, understanding what makes a burial truly green can bring peace of mind and purpose.
If you're looking for naturally dyed, biodegradable burial shrouds handcrafted with care, we invite you to explore our collection or reach out to us with any questions.