As people become increasingly mindful of their environmental impact, the choice to be buried at sea as a final resting place has emerged as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial practices.
When conducted responsibly, sea burials can greatly reduce the environmental impact compared to other more traditional burial traditions.
Here are six reasons why sea burials are an ecologically healthy choice.
It's no secret that traditional cemeteries require significant land use. The use and expansion of cemeteries results in deforestation and the disruption of natural habitats. Sea burials avoid this entirely, preserving green spaces for wildlife and future generations.
Many traditional burials involve embalming fluids containing toxic chemicals like formaldehyde. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for these substances to leach into the soil and water. This causes obvious contamination issues that are not present when a burial at sea is chosen. Sea burials eliminate the need for embalming and reduce the potential for chemical pollution.
Sea burials often involve the use of biodegradable shrouds, urns, or caskets designed to break down naturally in the marine environment. This ensures that no lasting waste or pollutants are left behind. In fact, when choosing a sea burial in California, anything that is not biodegradable is not allowed to be left behind in the environment.
Sea burials focus on simplicity, often forgoing elaborate headstones, vaults, or decorative elements that require extensive resources to produce. This minimalist approach aligns with environmentally conscious living. The main focus when choosing to be buried at sea is the ceremony itself. Friends and family contribute to making this memorial service type as meaningful as possible, instead of materials that are left behind like headstones.
Traditional burials can lead to soil contamination from decomposing bodies, embalming fluids, and non-biodegradable materials. Sea burials avoid this entirely, ensuring no harm to terrestrial ecosystems.
Sea burials foster a deep respect for nature, emphasizing harmony with the environment. This connection encourages families to consider sustainable practices and advocate for the preservation of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Indeed, many of the people who choose to have their cremated remains scattered at sea do so out of a deep and profound respect for the natural world.
To ensure that sea burials are environmentally friendly, it’s crucial to adhere to local and international regulations.
If you are choosing to have your sea memorial service performed in California, our team at Burials at Sea by Newport Landing can help guide you through the process.
Sea burials offer a profound and ecologically mindful way to honor a loved one’s life. By embracing practices that protect the environment, families can create a legacy that not only celebrates life but also sustains the planet.
In choosing a sea burial, you’re not just saying goodbye—you’re giving back to the Earth and the oceans that sustain us all.
