Paragraph 1: The Growing Demand for Green Burials and the Challenges Faced by Cemeteries
The funeral industry is witnessing a significant shift towards environmentally conscious practices, with a growing number of individuals seeking greener alternatives to traditional burial methods. This trend reflects a heightened awareness of the environmental impact of conventional burials, which often involve embalming fluids, non-biodegradable caskets, and extensive land use. The Natural Burial Association has reported a threefold increase in cemeteries offering natural burial options since 2018, indicating a substantial rise in demand. However, many cemeteries face challenges in adapting to this evolving landscape. Limited land availability, coupled with the financial and logistical hurdles of implementing new practices, poses a significant obstacle for cemetery operators seeking to accommodate the growing demand for green burials. This situation has created a need for innovative solutions that address both the environmental concerns and the operational challenges faced by cemeteries.
Paragraph 2: Awake’s Innovative Approach to Sustainable Burial Practices
Awake, a company based in Oro Medonte, Ontario, is at the forefront of developing and implementing sustainable burial solutions. Recognizing the challenges faced by cemeteries, Awake aims to make greener options accessible to more Canadians while simultaneously helping cemeteries maintain their operations. The company’s core innovation lies in a patented process that transforms cremated ashes, which are typically considered toxic due to their high alkaline content, into a substance that promotes plant growth. This is achieved by mixing the ashes with a specially formulated soil mixture, effectively neutralizing their harmful properties and creating a nutrient-rich medium for fostering new life. This innovative approach not only addresses the environmental concerns associated with cremated remains but also offers a sustainable alternative to traditional burial practices.
Paragraph 3: Transforming Cemetery Landscapes with Scattering Gardens
Awake’s primary focus has been on creating scattering gardens within existing cemeteries. These gardens provide designated areas where cremated remains can be scattered and naturally integrated into the environment. This approach allows cemeteries to utilize previously unusable land, such as areas with dense tree roots, thereby maximizing the available space. The scattering garden model offers a significant advantage over traditional burial plots, which typically accommodate a limited number of interments. In contrast, scattering gardens can accommodate a virtually limitless number of individuals over time, as the cremated remains decompose and enrich the soil.
Paragraph 4: The Economic and Environmental Benefits of Scattering Gardens
The implementation of scattering gardens offers significant economic and environmental advantages. Traditional burial plots can be costly, averaging around $2,500, while scattering gardens present a more affordable option at approximately $500. This lower cost makes green burial more accessible to a wider range of families. Furthermore, the cyclical nature of scattering gardens, where remains decompose and contribute to the growth of new life, creates a sustainable model for cemeteries. As the remains are incorporated into the soil, the garden’s capacity for future interments expands, ensuring long-term viability and reducing the need for additional land acquisition. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also contributes to the long-term financial stability of cemeteries.
Paragraph 5: Expanding the Reach of Sustainable Burial Practices
Awake’s success in Ontario has garnered recognition and support, leading to a grant from the Federal Economic Development Agency of Ontario. This funding will enable the company to expand its operations to other provinces, such as British Columbia, further promoting the adoption of sustainable burial practices across Canada. Awake’s co-founder, Amanda Kelly, has also been appointed co-chair of the sustainability committee for the Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals. This role allows Kelly to contribute to the development of industry-wide resources and guidelines for integrating greener processes into funeral services. This collaborative effort aims to facilitate the broader adoption of sustainable practices within the funeral industry.
Paragraph 6: The Importance of Choice and the Future of Green Burials
The increasing availability of green burial options empowers families to make choices that align with their environmental values. While traditional burial practices remain prevalent, the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives signifies a shift in societal perspectives on death care. Awake’s innovative approach, along with the increasing awareness and acceptance of green burial options, is paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the funeral industry. This movement not only addresses the immediate environmental concerns associated with traditional burial but also promotes a more holistic and respectful approach to honoring the deceased.
