NATURAL BURIAL Meaning and
Definition
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A natural burial refers to an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach to laying a deceased person to rest. It is a practice that emphasizes a return to nature and minimizes the use of chemicals, resources, and materials that can harm the environment. In a natural burial, the body is intentionally allowed to decompose naturally and become a part of the ecosystem.
The main principle behind a natural burial is the avoidance of embalming fluids, which are typically filled with toxic chemicals, and the use of biodegradable materials for the casket or shroud. This allows for a more natural decomposition process, where the body can contribute to the soil's fertility and provide sustenance for plants and trees. The burial site is often chosen in a natural landscape, such as a designated nature reserve or woodland area, where the burial can have the least impact on the environment.
Natural burials prioritize simplicity, avoiding the use of non-biodegradable materials like concrete vaults or metal caskets. Instead, materials like sustainably-sourced wood, wicker, or environmentally friendly cardboard may be employed. The gravesite is typically marked with a simple, natural marker, such as a tree, shrub, or a small engraved stone.
This approach to burial aims to promote ecological sustainability, conserve natural resources, and support the regeneration of ecosystems. Natural burials provide an alternative to conventional practices that often rely on synthetic and non-renewable materials. Such practices align with individuals who prioritize environmental stewardship and wish to reduce their impact on the planet, even at the end of their life.
Etymology of NATURAL BURIAL
The word natural in the phrase natural burial comes from the Latin word naturalis, which means by birth or according to nature. Etymologically, it is derived from the Latin word natura, meaning nature or the course of things. The term natural burial is often used to describe a way of burying a deceased person that minimizes environmental impact and seeks to allow decomposition to occur naturally, without the use of embalming fluids or non-biodegradable materials. The word burial stems from the Old English word byrgels, which means a grave or tomb.
