What is a Tree Pod Burial?
Being buried in a tree pod is becoming increasingly popular as many look for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional burial methods. If you’ve never heard of tree pod burials or are interested in pursuing this method of burial, this article covers the important points you’ll need to know.
What are green burials?
A green burial, also known as a natural burial, is an environmentally conscious and sustainable approach to the final disposition of a deceased person's body. In contrast to traditional burial practices, green burials prioritize minimal environmental impact by utilizing biodegradable materials such as simple shrouds or caskets made from natural substances like bamboo or wicker. Embalming fluids are eschewed in favor of allowing the body to decompose naturally. These burials often take place in dedicated natural burial grounds or specific sections within traditional cemeteries, fostering the preservation of natural landscapes and biodiversity. Green burials contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint associated with conventional funeral practices, promoting a more holistic and eco-friendly end-of-life alternative.
What is a tree pod burial?
A tree pod burial, also known as a bio urn burial or living urn burial, is a distinctive environmentally conscious approach to memorializing the deceased. In this innovative method, the cremated remains are placed inside a biodegradable urn shaped like a pod, often made from eco-friendly materials like recycled paper or clay, which also contains tree seeds or a small sapling. This combination allows for the growth of a tree at the burial site, symbolizing the cycle of life and providing a living tribute to the departed. Tree pod burials offer a meaningful and sustainable alternative to traditional burial practices, connecting the memory of the individual with the natural world in a harmonious and eco-friendly way.
What does a cocoon tree burial pod cost?
The tree burial pod cost depends on the type of pod you’re purchasing. Some pods come with a sapling while other pods will not come with a sapling, meaning you need to purchase your own sapling. If you’re purchasing your own sapling, it’s important to do some preliminary research into what type of sapling to purchase. It’s advised to purchase a tree sapling that is native to your environment. There are three major burial pods on the market at the moment:
- The Living Urn - $129 - This tree burial pod costs $129 for their lowest cost product which allows you to purchase a sapling separately. They also offer tree saplings on their website.
- Bios Urn - $140 - The Bios Urn does not come with a tree sapling but has space for you to add your own “locally sourced” ingredients.
- Capsula Mundi - $370 - Capsula Mundi is more expensive than other pods at $370 and is made out of biodegradable bioplastic. The trees are not included with this urn.
How can I find tree pod burials near me?
In order to find a place that does tree pod burials, you’ll need to start by finding a cemetery or organization that offers green burials. Cemeteries, funeral homes, and other organizations that offer green burials will generally have different methods of disposition to offer. Depending on your state and local laws and regulations, you could purchase a burial pod online and hold a treepod burial in your own backyard. You should to first check on your state’s laws and regulations around burying cremains on your own private property, but this is an option for some.
What is the process for burials in a tree pod?
A tree pod burial, also known as green burial or eco burial, is an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to traditional burial methods. In this unique approach, the deceased is laid to rest in a biodegradable pod that is designed to promote the growth of a tree.
Here is an overview of the process:
1. Biodegradable pod selection:
The first step involves selecting a biodegradable pod. These pods are typically made from eco-friendly materials like recycled paper, cardboard, or even natural fibers. The pod is designed to break down naturally over time, leaving minimal impact on the environment.
2. Tree selection:
Most tree pods do not come with a tree seed planted in the pod as leave it up to the consumer to purchase a tree that’s right for them. Try to list out the tree pod’s different burial locations you’re considering since the type of tree you purchase should be native to the environment you’re planting the pod in.
3. Placement of the body:
The deceased is placed inside the biodegradable pod, along with any personal items or mementos if desired. The pod is then buried directly in the ground, typically in a designated natural burial ground or a specially designated area within a cemetery that supports eco-friendly practices.
4. Planting a tree:
One of the key aspects of a tree pod burial is the inclusion of a tree seed or sapling within the pod. As the pod decomposes, it provides nutrients to the soil, aiding in the growth of the tree. Family members or loved ones may choose a specific type of tree, allowing for a meaningful connection to the natural surroundings.
5. Memorialization:
Family and friends can choose to memorialize the site in various ways. Some may place a small marker or plaque near the tree, while others may prefer a more natural and unmarked setting. The growing tree becomes a living tribute and a symbol of the ongoing cycle of life.
6. Environmental benefits:
Tree pod burials offer several environmental benefits. The process is more sustainable than traditional burial methods that involve embalming fluids, non-biodegradable caskets, and tombstones. Tree pod burials contribute to reforestation efforts, promote biodiversity, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional burials.
7. Ceremonial aspects:
The burial ceremony can be personalized based on the wishes of the deceased and their loved ones. This may include rituals, readings, or other meaningful activities that celebrate the person's life and connection to nature.
A tree pod burial provides a holistic and eco-conscious approach to the end-of-life journey, allowing individuals to return to the earth in a way that fosters new life and contributes positively to the environment.
Deciding on the method of disposition is one of many tasks one has to consider when preparing for end-of-life. If you are in the midst of preparing for end-of-life or are doing research out of curiosity, Ever Loved’s checklist is a great place to start. This free checklist is comprehensive and offers guidance and information on important tasks to take care of when planning for end-of-life.
