Rachel Hawthorn is preparing to craft her own burial shroud, driven by her commitment to reducing the environmental impact associated with conventional burials and cremations.
“I strive to recycle and minimize waste in my life, and I want my death to reflect those values,” she states.
According to a report from a carbon consultancy, gas cremation emits carbon dioxide equivalent to a round-trip flight from London to Paris, with approximately 80% of those who pass away in the UK opting for cremation each year.
Standard burials also pose environmental concerns, as non-biodegradable coffins, often treated with harmful chemicals, and the use of formaldehyde for embalming present risks of soil contamination.
A recent survey revealed that 10% of individuals desire more eco-friendly funeral options.
Rachel, an artist based in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, previously created a burial shroud for a friend using locally sourced materials. Her work has continually explored themes of death, grief, and nature.
The 50-year-old views the shroud as more than just art; it has inspired her decision to craft her own.
Witnesses often express a desire to feel the soft texture of the shroud, illustrating its ability to foster open conversations about death.
Rachel, also a death doula, supports individuals and families in making informed choices regarding funeral arrangements. “Discussing death can be enlightening and assists in healing,” she notes.
“Too often, we rush through the process following a death; I want to encourage discussions about the options available.”
She advocates for greater awareness of alternatives to traditional burial practices, emphasizing that people can opt for more meaningful, eco-sensitive approaches.
Traditional burial practices, such as digging graves to a depth of six feet, date back to at least the 16th century as a measure against disease.
When her time comes, Rachel plans for a natural burial, utilizing biodegradable materials and a shallower grave that facilitates decomposition within 20 to 30 years, compared to up to a century in traditional settings.
Natural burial sites, contrasting typical cemeteries, feature trees and wildflowers in place of conventional grave markers, and prohibit the use of pesticides.
Typically, embalming, headstones, ornaments, and artificial flowers are not permitted.
Last year, Louise McManus laid her mother to rest at Tarn Moor Memorial Woodland, opting for an electric hearse, a locally made wool coffin, and personal flowers from her garden.
“She cherished nature and was passionate about environmental issues, so she requested a sustainable funeral,” Louise explains.
Sarah Jones, a Leeds-based funeral director, reports a growing interest in eco-friendly funerals. Since establishing her business in 2016, she has seen sustainable requests lead to expansion.
Now, these eco-burials account for approximately 20% of her clientele, reflecting a rising trend among those wishing to honor the environment.
“People increasingly seek options that resonate with the deceased’s values, particularly regarding environmental responsibility,” she adds.
Though natural burials can be costlier, many grounds offer lower rates for local residents. For instance, at Tarn Moor, costs for local plots with maintenance are approximately £1,177, compared to £1,818 for non-residents.
In contrast, traditional graves at nearby cemeteries are priced at around £1,200, with cremation services starting at £896.
Due to their locations away from urban centers, traveling to natural burial sites can result in a larger carbon footprint, as highlighted by expert analyses.
Despite recognizing these factors, Rachel remains optimistic for the future. She advocates for the establishment of more local natural burial grounds and aims to normalize eco-friendly end-of-life practices while respecting various individual preferences.
“In times past, women would bring their burial shrouds as part of their dowry, kept ready in a drawer until needed,” she reflects. “Why not make burial shrouds accessible now?”
“I envision a time when this practice becomes standard, while still acknowledging each person’s unique preferences.”
