Green funerals include a casket or urn that is completely 100% biodegradable. Absolutely no plastic or metal is incorporated in the caskets or urn during their production. They are free of any stains, varnishes, oils, or animal products and only biodegradable, non-toxic glue is used. The wood used for the casket or urn should also be from sustainable, local forests.

Aside from the casket, the body must be prepared in an environmentally friendly fashion as well. This typically means that there is no embalming and no chemicals used, including cosmetics. Although, if embalming is requested by the family, a less-toxic embalming fluid may be used at our funeral home in Bethlehem, Pa.

A conservation cemetery provides a sustainable and fulfilling solution for people seeking to leave a legacy of care and respect for the environment. The burial process supports and restores nature instead of destroying it. Green Meadow in Fountain Hill, Pa is a natural cemetery with dedicated sections for green burial.  Established in 2012, Green Meadow is the Lehigh Valley’s only green cemetery. Many of the options vary between cemeteries and Cantelmi Funeral Homes can help you decide which would best serve your needs.

Green burial is a way of caring for Lehigh Valley families with minimal environmental impact that aids in the conservation of natural resources, reduction of carbon emissions, protection of worker health,and the restoration ​and/or preservation of habitat. 

Sources:

Green Burial Council