Among all options for sending a loved one to the afterlife, the traditional burial is the most common. As time progresses, however, plenty of alternatives are becoming much more available and considered, as they may reflect different values or beliefs of the person being laid to rest. For an environmentalist, an eco-burial, for those less religious, cremation may stand out.

While the traditional burial is a time-honoured tradition, it may also not be the best option for you. It may be worthwhile considering the alternatives, here are a few to explore.

Cremation

Unsurprisingly, cremation is the most popular alternative available. It is much simpler, cheaper, and fits very well for those who may choose to see a traditional burial as a more religious option, with cremation offering an atheist alternative. Cremation, simply, involves burning the body to ashes. These ashes can then be used however is thought best.

Not only is it a cheaper option, it also can afford a certain amount of closeness or personalization. For example, if you wanted to keep the deceased close, a decorative urn could be used and placed on a fireplace. Alternatively, a popular option is to scatter the ashes in a place that the deceased was fond of, or had a bond with. It is always worth considering, and you can double check that your local funeral director does cremations, like West Suffolk or Bury St Edmunds.

Eco-Burial

Known by other names such as natural or green burials, these are seen as environmentally friendly options. There is no need for burning or chemicals, and they don’t even require a wooden coffin.

Instead, different materials may be used such as wicker or cardboard; biodegradable materials such as these allow for natural decomposition of both coffin and body. There are specifically outlined plots of land used for eco-burial sites, which once again should be checked with any local funeral directors. These are usually woodlands or meadows, allowing the deceased to return to nature and be one with the earth.

Typically also involving planting a tree or creating a memorial garden, eco-burials offer an excellent way for those who truly care for the environment to give back once more.

Donating the Body to Science

Some people may instead wish for their body to be donated to science after their passing. This means that the body will be donated to a local research group at a university or hospital, where it can be used for research or educational purposes, respectively.

Of course, it is not for everyone, and can often be seen as quite gruesome as opposed to peacefully laying someone to rest, or treating their bodies in some sort of ritual and spiritual manner, however it can provide the deceased with the knowledge that their passing will contribute to humanity in some form.

That isn’t to say that there is no form of memorialising the body at all, as services will usually be held for the deceased after donation.

Sea Burials

Another option for those with a love for the natural world, though more specifically this time the ocean, is a burial at sea. Maybe for someone who served in the navy, worked as a sailor or fisher, or even those who live in a coastal town in the UK and have grown up with a great appreciation for the sea. Similar to an eco-burial, the body is encased in a biodegradable material and is lowered into the water. Though this is a very specialised service, and there are rules and regulations around their performance. Despite this, it offers a very unique and somewhat tranquil means of memorialising the passing of a loved one.