LONDON: A British woman concerned about environmental sustainability has designed an eco-friendly burial shroud for her final rites.
According to a report by the BBC, British Woman Rachel, a resident of West Yorkshire, says she does not want her last act on earth to contribute to pollution. She tries to use fewer resources and focuses on recycling as much as possible.
In the UK, approximately 80% of deceased individuals are cremated annually. However, environmental organizations have raised concerns over the high carbon emissions associated with cremation. Burning one body releases as much carbon dioxide as a round-trip flight from London to Paris.
Traditional burials, too, can impact the environment negatively. Non-biodegradable coffins are often made with harmful chemicals, and embalming fluids like formaldehyde can seep into the ground and pollute the soil.
As an artist, Rachel crafted an eco-friendly shroud using locally sourced wool, willow, bramble, and ivy for a friend’s burial. This shroud eliminates the need for a coffin entirely. Rachel sees the shroud as more than just a functional item—it is also a work of art. Inspired by this, she has decided to create a similar eco-friendly shroud for herself.
Rachel also advocates for shallow burials to minimize environmental impact. In Britain, graves are traditionally dug six feet deep, a practice dating back to the 16th century, originally intended to protect against the plague. However, she explains that bodies buried six feet deep can take up to 100 years to fully decompose.
To promote faster decomposition, Rachel prefers a shallower grave paired with a biodegradable shroud. She notes that the soil closer to the surface contains microbes that help accelerate the decomposition process.
Rachel’s initiative aligns with growing awareness about eco-conscious practices in funerals, offering an alternative approach to honor life while preserving the planet.
