Benefits of Eco-Friendly and Green Burial Services in Singapore
In 2021, Singapore generated more than 7.7 million tons of waste, of which 94% was disposed of in incinerators and landfills. As the nation seeks ways to reduce its environmental footprint, a growing number of people are opting for green burials, a more eco-conscious alternative to traditional funerals.
Green burial services reduce the environmental impact, helping families make sustainable choices in their final farewell. For families looking for ways to honour their loved ones while reducing their carbon footprint, green burial services in Singapore are increasingly seen as a responsible and meaningful choice.
Let’s explore the benefits, process, and reasons why eco-friendly burial practices are gaining traction in Singapore.
What is a Green Burial?
A green burial, also known as a natural burial, is an eco-conscious alternative to conventional burial practices. In green burials, the body is returned to the earth in a way that minimises environmental impact.
This means avoiding chemicals like embalming fluid, choosing biodegradable caskets, and sometimes opting out of concrete burial vaults. The goal is to allow the body to decompose naturally, returning nutrients to the earth while leaving a smaller carbon footprint.
This practice aligns with sustainable values, offering an option that is more aligned with nature.
Why Choose a Green Burial?
Choosing a green burial goes beyond honouring a loved one. It’s about making an environmentally responsible decision that will have lasting effects.
From lowering carbon emissions to reducing resource consumption, there are numerous reasons why individuals and families in Singapore are increasingly choosing green burials.
Environmental Benefits of Green Burials
The most significant advantage of green burials is their positive impact on the environment. Traditional burial practices, including the use of concrete vaults and embalming chemicals, contribute to land and groundwater pollution.
In contrast, green burials utilise biodegradable materials that naturally decompose and nourish the earth.
According to a National Environment Agency report, Singapore's waste management infrastructure is under increasing strain due to the limited availability of landfill space, particularly at Pulau Semakau, the country's only landfill.
Green burials reduce the amount of waste sent to these landfills by eliminating synthetic materials and chemicals. Opting for a green burial is a way to leave a lasting, positive mark, helping to keep Singapore's environment cleaner and more sustainable.
Reducing Carbon Footprint Through Green Burial Practices
Funeral services that involve cremation or embalming can contribute significantly to carbon emissions. In fact, cremation releases approximately 400 kg of CO2 into the atmosphere per body, not including the energy used in the process.
Green burials, by contrast, forgo the use of fossil fuels and harmful chemicals, ensuring that your final farewell leaves the smallest possible carbon footprint.
In Singapore, with its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions under the Singapore Green Plan 2030, choosing a green burial aligns with the country’s broader environmental goals.
Cost-Effectiveness of Green Funerals
While some people may think of green burials as an expensive alternative, they can often be more cost-effective than traditional burials or cremations. Traditional funerals often include costs for embalming, expensive coffins, burial vaults, and concrete liners—all of which are avoided with green burials.
Families in Singapore can save thousands of dollars by opting for eco-friendly caskets and natural burial services. Additionally, by reducing the need for energy-intensive practices like cremation, green burials offer a financially sustainable way to honour a loved one.
How Green Burial Services Work in Singapore
Singapore's approach to green burials reflects its broader commitment to sustainability. With services designed to meet the needs of eco-conscious families, green burial services in Singapore provide an effective alternative to conventional practices while adhering to local environmental regulations.
Locally Made Eco-Friendly Caskets
One of the defining features of green burial services in Singapore is the use of locally made, biodegradable caskets. These caskets are typically constructed from sustainable materials such as bamboo, rattan, or untreated wood.
These materials break down naturally over time, reducing environmental impact and promoting the natural decomposition process.
When families choose locally made caskets, they’re not only making an environmentally friendly decision but also supporting Singapore's local economy. This helps boost sustainable industries right here at home, while also cutting down on the carbon emissions that come from importing materials from overseas.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Burials
Along with eco-friendly caskets, there are other alternatives available for families who wish to take a more sustainable approach to burials.
Some popular eco-friendly burial alternatives in Singapore include:
- Scattering Gardens: Areas specifically designated for the scattering of ashes, reducing the need for land use and burial plots.
- Natural Burial Grounds: Sites where no chemicals or synthetic materials are used, and where bodies are buried in biodegradable shrouds or caskets.
- Living Memorials: Some families opt to plant a tree or garden in memory of their loved one, providing a lasting tribute that also contributes to the environment.
These alternatives are becoming more common, offering families multiple ways to honour their loved ones while being mindful of the planet.
Why Unity Casket is a Leader in Green Burial Services
When it comes to green burial services in Singapore, Unity Casket is a leader. We understand that a funeral is not just about saying goodbye—it’s about leaving a lasting legacy that reflects the values of the deceased and their loved ones.
Unity Casket offers comprehensive green burial services that prioritise environmental sustainability and personal choice.
Here’s why Unity Casket stands out:
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Unity Casket uses only biodegradable and sustainable materials for their caskets, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
- Personalized Green Burial Plans: Every family is different, and Unity Casket takes pride in offering personalised services that reflect the wishes of the deceased and their family.
- Experienced Professionals: With decades of experience, Unity Casket’s team provides guidance and support throughout the entire green burial process, from selecting the right materials to planning a meaningful farewell.
- Commitment to Sustainability: Unity Casket is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and continually improving its practices to align with Singapore’s sustainability goals.
Choosing Unity Casket means choosing a funeral service that is both respectful and responsible—one that honours the memory of a loved one while supporting a healthier planet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Benefits of Eco-Friendly and Green Burial Services in Singapore
- Are green burials allowed in Singapore?
Yes, green burials are allowed in Singapore, and there are several services that offer eco-friendly funeral options. These services comply with local environmental laws and provide sustainable alternatives to traditional burials.
- What materials are used in eco-friendly caskets?
Eco-friendly caskets are typically made from biodegradable materials such as bamboo, rattan, or untreated wood. These materials decompose naturally, leaving no lasting impact on the environment.
- Is a green burial more expensive than a traditional burial?
Green burials can be more affordable than traditional burials. By eliminating the need for embalming, vaults, and other expensive items, families can reduce the overall cost of a funeral while making environmentally responsible choices.
A Sustainable Farewell: Unity Casket for Eco-Friendly Funeral Services
Choosing a green burial is more than a choice for today—it’s a decision that impacts the future. At Unity Casket, we understand the importance of making choices that reflect your values. Our eco-friendly burial services provide families in Singapore with a sustainable, meaningful way to honour their loved ones.
Call us today to learn more about our green burial options, or visit our website to explore how we can help you plan a beautiful, environmentally responsible farewell.