Caring for the planet
A greener farewell
For those who’ve lived with care for the natural world, a green funeral is a way of honouring that in one final, meaningful act.
At Ian Hazel Funerals, we’ll help you understand all the options and find the right combination for your loved one and your family.
Green funerals are becoming an increasingly common choice in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. More families are looking for a farewell that feels genuine, personal and aligned with the values their loved one held in life.
At Ian Hazel Funerals, we’ve been recognised for our commitment to the environment, having achieved the 100% Platinum Award for Environmental Commitment. It’s something we take seriously, in how we work and in the choices we offer the families we serve.
There’s no single definition of what makes a funeral “green”. It’s really about the choices you make along the way. Some families want to consider every detail. Others simply want to swap one or two elements of a traditional funeral for something more natural. Both are completely valid, and we’ll guide you through it without pressure or rush.
What makes a funeral green?
A green or eco-friendly funeral aims to reduce environmental impact by using natural, biodegradable materials and avoiding certain chemicals or processes.
Biodegradable coffins
Rather than a traditional hardwood or veneered coffin, eco-friendly alternatives include willow, bamboo, seagrass, wool and cardboard. All are fully biodegradable and many are beautifully crafted. We carry a range of these as part of our coffins selection.
No embalming
Embalming is never a legal requirement in the UK. For a green funeral, we’d typically recommend refrigeration instead, which is safe, dignified and avoids the use of chemicals that can affect the surrounding soil.
Natural burial
A natural or woodland burial is one of the most significant choices a family can make. Rather than a traditional cemetery plot, your loved one is laid to rest in a meadow, woodland or nature reserve. No headstone. No concrete vault. Just a living landscape that continues to grow and change with the seasons.
Graves are usually marked with a native tree, a wildflower planting or a simple biodegradable marker. The land is managed to support wildlife, native plants and natural habitats.
Natural floral choices
Seasonal, locally grown flowers make a beautiful alternative to imported hothouse blooms. Wildflower arrangements, potted plants or donations to a conservation charity in lieu of flowers are all options we can help you think through.
Other small things that add up
Sharing transport to the funeral, choosing a digital order of service rather than a printed one, requesting donations to charity in place of flowers. None of these things is dramatic on its own, but together they make a real difference.
Woodland burial — what to expect
There are now over 270 natural burial grounds across the UK, managed by charities, private landowners and local authorities. They vary enormously in character, from wildflower meadows to mature woodland, from open hilltops to quiet, sheltered sites.
What most have in common is that they ask for biodegradable coffins or shrouds only, and they don’t permit embalming. Grave markers are kept natural and in keeping with the landscape.
A woodland burial can be as personal and as moving as any other. You can hold a graveside ceremony with music, readings and personal tributes. You can have family carry the coffin. You can plant a tree in memory. Many families find the natural setting adds something that a traditional crematorium chapel doesn’t.
Green cremation
Cremation doesn’t rule out a greener approach. Choosing a biodegradable coffin for a cremation still makes a meaningful difference. Ashes can be buried at a natural burial ground, scattered at a place that held significance for your loved one, or placed in a biodegradable urn that returns to the earth naturally.
Some families choose a tree-planting ceremony with the ashes, creating a living tribute that continues to grow. We’re happy to help arrange this.
Holding your hand every step of the way
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Available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. A member of our team will always answer your call.
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