INFORMATION & RESOURCES:
Home Funerals, Death Care, and Natural Burial
Many people who are new to the idea of natural ('green') burials and home funerals have questions about how it all works.
We offer this brief overview and our suggestions for finding expert information to get you started. There's a lot to learn.
NATURAL BURIAL
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"Green burial" refers to the practices that allow for a true return of remains to the earth, with minimal impact on the environment. To ensure a natural process, the composition of the materials used, as well as the cemetery practices must be considered.
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A broader definition of green burial encompasses practices beyond the burial itself, ranging from reducing carbon emissions in any aspect of the process, to preserving natural areas in conjunction with green cemeteries.
FUNERAL GUIDES
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Trained funeral guides help families with both the practical and emotional aspects of death. Funeral guides make families aware of their rights with respect to death care and how to plan for a process that fits their needs. Some funeral guides have training in counseling services and help families with bereavement.
Green Burial and Home Funeral
Advocacy Organizations
An organization setting certification standards for green burial in North America for funeral homes, cemeteries, and product manufacturers.
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Mission is to inspire and advocate for environmentally sustainable, natural death care.
National Home Funeral Alliance (NHFA)
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Promoting environmentally sound and culturally nurturing death practices.
Find information about home funerals, funeral guides, and home-funeral-friendly funeral directors.
Local Resources
Cedar Grove, North Carolina
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The Bluestem Community is creating a beautiful conservation burial ground in Orange County, NC.
Hillsborough, North Carolina
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Educating the public about the environmental, financial, and spiritual benefits of green and natural burial.
Sara S. Williams
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Certified Home Funeral Guide
Graham, North Carolina
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Reclaiming the sacred tradition of caring for our own at death.
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919 623 0051
