WHO KNEW that Green Burials Are Now Possible in Hanover at Pine Knolls Cemetery?

Today, a conventional burial includes an embalmed body, a casket made of metal or hardwood, and a concrete vault deep in the ground. This is what many picture when they think of a funeral. But for those who envision a different type of return to the earth, there is green burial.

Green burial is a more natural, environmentally-conscious approach. It prioritizes placing the body directly in the earth, forgoing embalming, and using biodegradable materials. Green burial is not a new method. It is a return to how humans have buried their dead for generations, and how many cultures bury their dead today. It is a time-honored tradition that provides a modern solution for those seeking a simpler, earth-friendly end.

What is "green” burial?

When we say "green," we mean the burial benefits the environment and its inhabitants through:

1. a low carbon footprint (carbon sequestration)

2. conservation initiatives (land use and management)

3. protecting worker health (forgoing embalming)

"Green" can be used interchangeably with other words like "natural" or "eco-friendly," but no matter what it's called, it has to be supported in its environmental claim.

What is "Burial"?

When we say something is a "burial," we mean the whole body is placed in the ground covered in soil. In other words, unaltered human remains are allowed to return to the earth with no interference with the natural decomposition process. This means no toxic embalming, no vaults, no reduction of remains and the use of only sustainable and biodegradable containers (e.g. caskets and shrouds that are not harmful for the environment.)

Pine Knolls Cemetery is the only cemetery in Town that has grave sites available for sale. Natural burials are permitted in Block 8. Natural burial graves are sold sequentially on a first come, first sold basis. There is no option for choosing a specific location for green burials. All natural burials require the Town’s Natural Burial Agreement to be signed by all participants in the burial process.

Pine Knolls Cemetery is managed by the the Town of Hanover’s Dept. of Parks and Recreation. Check out their website for more information: https://www.hanovernh.org/884/Parks-Cemeteries-Trees.