Choosing Between Burial and Cremation

Deciding between burial and cremation can be a difficult decision for many. The multitude of options available today can make the task even more daunting. There are now natural woodland and burial sites available through private landowners and also in cemeteries and graveyards, plus burial at sea. Though few burials at sea take place relative to internment and cremation, it is an option, though it can be a difficult process and there is lots of red tape to wade through.

Many churchyards and cemeteries in large cities and towns are running out of burial space, and people are being forced to look at alternative methods. Though cremation is an option, it is not popular with many, and is considered by some to be a bit impersonal. Choosing for yourself or on behalf of the deceased may prove to be a spontaneous decision, based on what is more familiar, and less intimidating. In this article we'll discuss various alternatives in order to help you with what can be a confusing and complex decision.

Electing for Burial or Cremation

If a person dies without expressing any previous preference as to whether they want to be buried or cremated, making the choice for them can prove very difficult. There are the person's family and friends to consider, expenses, and most of all, the deceased's personality. Many people are horrified at the though of their friend, associate or family member being put through the fire, while many others are influenced by traditions and religious values.

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Many families have had their deceased members buried in a particular cemetery for generations, but when that graveyard no longer has room, alternative methods such as cremation may well have to be considered. One solution to this dilemma is to have the body cremated and the ashes spread or interred in that particular spot. Cremation is considered to be the modern, efficient way to disposing the body, but some have voiced concerns over environmental issues and the impersonal nature of the ceremony. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of cremation.

Cremation – Pros and Cons

Cremation has been a form of body disposal since the late nineteenth century, and its major proponents make a case for its conservation of land and the fact that it is more hygienic. It has continued to increase in popularity however, especially since the 1940's. In the United Kingdom, over seventy percent of deceased persons are now cremated. But not every culture is as accepting of cremation as that, though some older cultures use cremation exclusively.

Though it does conserve land, many are put off by the final, unmistakable finality of being committed to the fire. An added concern is that Cremators burn a huge amount of energy, while releasing carbons and considerable quantities of mercury and other metals into the atmosphere. Legislation requiring strict emission control has increased the price of cremation which is passed on to the public. Cremation does remain cheaper though in areas where the cost of burial plots has increased.

If You Choose a Burial

A natural or green burial may be an alternative solution to a traditional graveyard burial if a plot is too expensive or unavailable. The terms "natural" and "green" simply mean that the body is returned to the earth in the most environmentally friendly way possible. These burial spots may be located in natural woodlands or forests, or even fields that have been designated as reforestation areas. They are usually in beautiful, tranquil areas, and many people are now opting for this method. The main objectives of most of these natural burial sights are to:

• Provide a natural environment for the bereaved
• Reduce the management and maintenance costs associated with traditional burial grounds
• And to use the land to provide a wider range of environmental benefits

Families who have used these burial sites have discovered that these types of funeral provide a very satisfying means of saying goodbye to their loved ones, and an attractive area to do so. By participating in and organising these passages, many families have been extremely satisfied, and have experienced a wonderful personal contentment in saying goodbye to their loved ones.

Some of the woodland and forest areas are owned by private landowners and some by local authorities. Because of the natural surroundings and environmentally friendly nature of these burials, headstones are normally not allowed, and if so are laid flat on the ground. A nice alternative is to have a tree planted near to the burial spot.

However you choose to say goodbye to your loved one is a personal choice, but it doesn't have to be made by you alone. Consult other family members and friends, but most of all, remember the deceased, and try to come to the conclusion that they would have wanted.