Natural burials at Great Glen Crematorium offer more choice
A natural burial ground has opened at Great Glen Crematorium as part of its commitment to offer increased options and choices to the communities it serves.
Natural burial grounds differ from traditional cemeteries in that they are managed to keep the area as natural as possible, employing ecological principles and biodiversity to create beautiful areas full of nature.
Great Glen Crematorium has decided to use part of its land as a natural burial ground from 1 May, providing local families with a more eco-friendly funeral option, which is becoming increasingly popular.
Natural burial grounds do not contain granite headstones and involve the use of biodegradable coffins made from environmentally-friendly materials such as real wood, preferably from renewable sources, wicker, bamboo or shrouds.
Great Glen Crematorium is part of Westerleigh Group, one of the UK’s largest independent owners and operators of crematoria and cemeteries, with 41 sites in England, Scotland, and Wales, all set within beautifully landscaped gardens of remembrance which provide peaceful places for people to visit and reflect.
Manager Marc Palmer said: “Natural burial grounds are the fitting choice for those who value sustainability, simplicity and a deep connection with nature.
“Being laid to rest in a beautiful, tranquil, environment can provide invaluably comforting emotional benefit to the bereaved.
“Because natural burials involve fewer resources, they contribute to long-term environmental sustainability.
“Our natural burial ground is located next to a protected area which is a habitat to Great Crested Newts, ensuring it will remain as a treasured green space for many years to come.”
To help maintain the integrity and natural beauty of the space, simple slate memorial plaques on a wooden stake will be used to mark graves. This thoughtful approach will support the preservation of the environment and ensure the area remains safe for local wildlife.
Marc added: “Westerleigh Group already operates some of the most environmentally-friendly crematoria in the country and the introduction of a natural burial ground is another way in which we are working to be ‘greener’ and ‘cleaner’ and also offer more choice to the communities we serve.”
For more information about the new natural burial ground at Great Glen Crematorium, or to find out about other services available, visit www.greatglencrem.co.uk.
