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Growing interest for sustainability during memorial services

Saro was invited to the symposium De Groene Dood, to share insights from the LCA study we conducted regarding the environmental impact of different memorial services.

Growing interest for sustainability during memorial services

People are increasingly striving to live sustainably. During your active life, there are a lot of things you can do to reduce your impact. But how about at the end of the ride; can one also pass away sustainably? Interest in natural burials, biodegradable coffins, and eco-friendly funeral rituals is rapidly growing.

Two weeks ago, Saro Campisano was invited to the symposium De Groene Dood, to share insights from the LCA study we conducted regarding the environmental impact of different memorial services. At this symposium, leading international scientists and dedicated funeral professionals shared a wealth of knowledge and a critical perspective. What appeals to people about resomation, natural burials, and human composting? How can we consider these disposals from a spiritual, as well as an ethical and practical, perspective?

Saro: "It was an honor to share the results of our LCA study at this symposium. It's understandable that sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the context of funerals. A funeral is a dignified occasion that should reflect personal values and principles. If sustainability forms part of these values, it is fitting that this consideration extends beyond life."

The symposium was organised by Funeraire Academie,  Rijksuniversiteit Groningen,  Uitvaartstichting Hilversum and Museum Tot Zover.

Frequently asked questions

Sustainability is becoming more important for memorial services because people want their end-of-life choices to reflect their personal values. The article notes that if sustainability is a core principle for someone during their life, it is fitting for that consideration to extend to their funeral as a final, dignified expression of their beliefs.

Examples of sustainable funeral options that are growing in popularity include natural burials, biodegradable coffins, and eco-friendly funeral rituals. The article also mentions that discussions at a recent symposium explored other methods such as resomation and human composting.

The environmental impact of different funeral options can be measured through an LCA study, or Life Cycle Assessment. The article mentions that the results of such a study were presented at a symposium to provide insights into the environmental effects associated with various memorial services.

The purpose of the 'De Groene Dood' symposium was to bring together leading scientists and funeral professionals to share knowledge on sustainable end-of-life practices. The event focused on understanding the appeal of different methods and considering them from a spiritual, ethical, and practical perspective.

The sustainable funeral movement involves contributions from a diverse group of experts, including leading international scientists and dedicated funeral professionals. According to the article, these experts collaborate to share a wealth of knowledge and critical perspectives on the topic at professional events.

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This article is written by:
Clara
Clara
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