Woodland burial, also known as green burial or natural burial, is an eco-friendly funeral option that is growing in popularity.

Woodland burial is an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional burials and cremation. It usually takes place in natural burial grounds, or designated woodland burial sites in larger cemeteries.

Generally, woodland burial does not include embalming. Some natural burial grounds will not allow embalming, as the chemicals used may pollute the ground.

For woodland burial, a biodegradable coffin or casket is used, usually made out of recycled paper, wicker or willow.

Woodland burials may not be marked with a headstone; instead they will be identified by a tree or flowers and often become indistinguishable from the woodland. Many natural burial grounds also have a map, so that the bereaved may visit the site of their loved one. Some natural burial grounds do not have maps to individual graves, but the bereaved may consider the whole woodland as a memorial to their loved one.

If you would prefer to visit the exact location of your loved one’s final resting place, you may want to carefully consider if a woodland burial is the right choice for you and your family.

The first natural burial ground in the UK was opened at Carlisle Cemetery in 1993. There are now around 260 green burial sites across the country, with that number continuing to grow.