Conservation Burial: The Greenest Green
Natural or green burial is a safe and legal alternative to conventional burial and supports the health of the planet. It’s how we returned our beloved dead to the earth since time immemorial. With the use of biodegradable caskets, shrouds, and containers, along with avoiding embalming fluids, concrete vaults, and other materials that slow natural decomposition, the natural processes of death are allowed to unfold. By returning the body to the earth in its most organic form, nature takes its course; gently, respectfully, and sustainably.
While there are many ways to green deathcare, we prefer the term “natural” as it more clearly describes the goal when discussing this form of disposition. There are three categories of ecologically-friendly cemeteries: hybrid, natural, and conservation burial.
A hybrid cemetery is one that offers both conventional and natural burial.
Natural burial is a term used interchangeably with green burial and adheres to the five tenets outlined by the Green Burial Council of Canada. These principles are rooted in simplicity, sustainability, and a deep respect for the natural cycle of life and death. It begins with no embalming; toxic chemicals are avoided and instead gentle methods like refrigeration and biodegradable soaps are used. This preserves dignity while honouring the body’s natural return to the earth. The burial itself involves direct earth burial, using only natural fibre shrouds or biodegradable, sustainably sourced caskets; no concrete vaults, no barriers. It is a simple return to the earth.
After burial, the site is restored with native plants, blending into the surrounding ecosystem and contributing to ecological restoration and conservation. Protected by permanent conservation easements, these landscapes are preserved as thriving habitats, ensuring they remain undisturbed for future generations. Memorialization is simple and natural, with modest markers of local wood or stone—or none at all—inviting the land itself to serve as the living tribute. Finally, sites are designed for sustainability, prioritizing efficient land use, minimizing paved roads, and maximizing space for natural burial. Together, these practices offer a meaningful, ethical, and earth-honouring alternative to conventional burial.
Conservation burial takes natural burial a step further. It combines environmentally responsible burial practices with permanent land protection. Burial fees directly support the acquisition, restoration, and long-term stewardship of natural landscapes. These cemeteries are not just places of rest; they are thriving ecosystems, carefully preserved through conservation easements that ensure they remain protected forever.
Instead of traditional headstones, GPS coordinates mark each gravesite. Graves are typically hand-dug and kept shallow. No deeper than four feet maximizes the natural breakdown of the body. Earth is carefully returned to its original layers, allowing native plants and soil microbes to thrive. Over time, these burial grounds transform into living sanctuaries of native grasses, flowers, and wildlife.
For individuals who value conservation, this offers a profoundly meaningful way to leave a legacy. Families find comfort in knowing their loved one’s final resting place contributes to land restoration and ecological health. With every burial, we help preserve a piece of the landscape, bringing people closer to the rhythms of life and death, and to the beauty of the earth itself.
Conservation burials are made possible through partnerships with independent conservation organizations, such as land trusts, ensuring that the land remains protected in perpetuity. While supporting all forms of green burial, Conservation Burial Ottawa aims to bring the greenest of the green to the National Capital Region.
The Science Behind Natural Burial
Natural burial isn’t just environmentally conscious; it’s also scientifically sound. Nature has an efficient system for returning the body to the earth and when we follow its lead, the results are both respectful and regenerative. This timeless practice works in partnership with nature to create a legacy of renewal and respect, relying on both science and tradition.
Optimal Burial Depth for Natural Decomposition
Unlike conventional burials, which place the body 5 to 6 feet (1.8 metres) deep, natural burial generally occurs at a depth of 3 to 4 feet (1.2 metres). Burying at this depth allows for greater oxygen flow, which supports the aerobic bacteria and beneficial insects that drive natural decomposition. The result is a more complete and efficient return of the body to the soil.
Timeline of Decomposition
Decomposition rates vary depending on soil type, moisture levels, and oxygen availability. On average:
- Within 6 weeks, most soft tissue breaks down as moisture is absorbed into the soil;
- Within 2 years, the body completes its natural decomposition process;
- In moist environments, bones may take up to 20 years to fully biodegrade.
Protection from Scavengers
At depths greater than 2 feet (0.6 metres), natural burial provides an effective barrier against animals. The surrounding soil and natural decomposition process minimize odor, helping to ensure that the resting place remains undisturbed.
Concern For Contamination of Water/Soil
Soil and water contamination is a consideration for ANY burial. The World Health Organization recommends, “burying disaster victims in relation to water sources, suggesting that humans and animals be buried at least 250 meters (820 feet) from any well, borehole, or spring from which potable water supply is drawn, 30 meters (98 feet) away from any other spring or water source, and at least 10 meters (32 feet) from any field drain.” (From Lee Webster’s The Science Behind Green and Conventional Burial). However, microorganisms that are part of the decay process are not pathogenic. Contamination may more likely occur from chemicals used in embalming and casket construction; even the pesticides used for ground maintenance at a conventional cemetery negatively impact the environment.
Natural burial cemeteries work within local guidelines and ecological best practices to create spaces of rich biodiversity, ensuring both environmental integrity and public safety. This ancestral way of caring for our beloved dead gives back to the earth, reduces pollution, protects land, and celebrates the beauty of nature.
Community Deathcare Ottawa 