Full Body Ocean Burial – The Eco-Friendly Way to Say Goodbye

Burial at sea can provide a sustainable and eco-friendly way to deal with human remains and also to help restore the ocean’s marine ecosystem. For example, companies specializing in these services can directly contribute to restoring coral reefs by placing intact remains in strategically chosen locations to promote coral growth. These areas often contain natural elements that serve as a base for new coral to attach and thrive, ideally resulting in a flourishing habitat for marine life. This process is known as “reef burial” and has been gaining popularity in recent years, although most methods today still include cremation first, which is not environmentally friendly.

Burial at sea, non-cremated remains, has a remarkably low carbon footprint compared to traditional burials. In comparison, a cremation has a 90% larger carbon footprint than a non-cremated burial at sea. Traditional funerary practices require heavy machinery for digging, high-energy cremation processes, and the transportation of heavy and non-biodegradable caskets. These processes have a significant environmental impact and contribute to carbon emissions. Burial at sea eliminates much of this impact as the process is largely manual and ideally requires no harmful chemicals or machinery.

Embalming is a common practice in traditional burials that involves the use of harmful chemicals. This practice can lead to the contamination of the soil and groundwater. Burial at sea can eliminate this risk and avoid embalming, as the ocean has natural mechanisms for breaking down biodegradable materials and the body. This natural process is less intrusive, offering a more sustainable and peaceful alternative.

A natural sea burial involves scattering ashes or immersing one’s body in the ocean. Unlike most traditional burials In the US, which consume significant land resources and often involve non-biodegradable materials, a sea burial method fosters a direct connection with the planet. It allows the departed to become part of the vast, ever-moving ocean—a beautiful homage to the cycle of life and nature’s continuity.

Beyond their ecological advantages, sea burials crafted from natural materials hold cultural and emotional significance for many families. They offer a serene and natural setting for farewells and rituals, providing a sense of peace and closure.
Many will find comfort in knowing their loved one’s remains will become part of the vast and ever-changing ocean ecosystem. Marine life will eventually consume the biodegradable materials used in sea burial ceremonies, returning nutrients to the ocean and contributing to its natural cycles.

While sea burials offer compelling environmental benefits, they are subject to specific regulations to ensure they are conducted responsibly. Various coastal and environmental regulations govern where and how such ceremonies can take place to safeguard marine ecosystems and respect local laws. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees sea burials under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA), also known as the Ocean Dumping Act. This law mandates that:

• Burials take place at least three nautical miles from shore
• Water depth must be at least 600 feet

The U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard also follow these guidelines for military sea burials. In the United Kingdom, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) regulates sea burials under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, requiring:

• Specific documentation
• Adherence to location criteria

Additionally, international waters are governed by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which provides guidelines for the protection of marine environments. These regulations aim to balance environmental concerns with cultural and personal preferences, ensuring that sea burials are conducted in a manner that respects both the deceased and the marine ecosystem.

The vast expanse of the ocean, with its undulating waves and boundless horizon, has long held a mystique that transcends time. In the realm of final farewells, an emerging practice resonates with the very essence of this natural wonder: ocean burials. Beyond their poignant symbolism and intimate connection to the sea, these ceremonies harbor a profound environmental impact that echoes the ebb and flow of nature’s rhythms.

Within the confines of traditional funeral practices lies a more sustainable alternative—a tribute that not only honors the departed but also champions the health of our planet. Ocean burials, through their unique blend of reverence for life and ecological mindfulness, offer a compelling array of environmental benefits that herald a more harmonious way to bid adieu to our loved ones.

As the world grapples with the urgency of environmental stewardship, exploring the virtues of ocean burials reveals a poignant harmony between the human journey’s conclusion and the enduring legacy left upon the Earth. Let’s delve deeper into the profound environmental advantages that make ocean burials a poignant and eco-conscious choice for honoring our departed and nurturing the very fabric of our planet.

• Conservation of Land: With limited land space and increasing urbanization, green burials alleviate the pressure on land resources that traditional burials demand. This helps preserve land for agriculture, biodiversity, and other essential purposes.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: Most burials today are not eco-friendly. Choosing a non-cremated remains burial at sea leaves a significantly lower carbon footprint than most traditional burial methods. This is because cremation releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. By opting for a full-body, non-casketed, burial at sea, you are really making a conscious decision to reduce your impact on the environment.
• Minimal Waste Production: Unlike conventional caskets and embalming fluids, sea burials significantly reduce waste generation. The materials used in the process are often biodegradable, contributing to a more sustainable approach to honoring the deceased.
• Support for Marine Ecosystems: Certain biodegradable caskets used in full-body sea burials are designed to foster marine life by providing a structure for coral reefs or serving as habitats for marine organisms. This promotes biodiversity and helps revive delicate ecosystems.

Sea burials transcend practical considerations, holding deep spiritual significance for many. The ocean, in its vastness and ceaseless motion, symbolizes the eternal cycle of life and death. For those who find solace in the immensity of nature, entrusting a loved one to the sea becomes a profound act of release and surrender to the forces far greater than ourselves.

The sound of waves gently lapping against the shore, the scent of salt in the air, and the sight of seabirds soaring overhead create a multisensory experience that can be deeply comforting for the bereaved family. This connection to the natural world offers a sense of peace, reminding us that life continues in its myriad forms, even in the face of loss.

As with any final arrangement, ocean burials require careful planning and adherence to regulations. Understanding the memorial service’s logistical and legal aspects is important to ensure a seamless and respectful ceremony. Companies specializing in this service can guide you in obtaining permits, Notifying the EPA, selecting suitable locations, and choosing eco-friendly caskets or burial shrouds. They may also help coordinate transportation, store remains, and provide documentation for the burial afterwards.

Some may also have specific cultural or religious customs that need to be considered. Many religions and faiths accept burial at sea. For example, in the Hindu religion, cremation and scattering of ashes into a body of water is believed to release the soul from the physical world. In Buddhism, it is common for followers to perform water burials as a way to return the body to nature and promote spiritual growth. In the past, many Lutheran naval veterans and seamen preferred a burial at sea.

Aside from religious logistical considerations, as awareness of environmental concerns grows, sea burials are likely to garner increased interest in the years to come. With advancements in technology and biodegradable materials continuing, we can expect even more innovative and sustainable ways to honor loved ones through this practice. More to come on the future of sea burial soon.

Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of sea burials lies in the enduring legacy they leave behind. By choosing this method, individuals make a conscious decision to minimize their environmental footprint even after they are gone. It’s a testament to their love for the planet and a commitment to responsible stewardship.

Furthermore, sea burials have the potential to inspire a ripple effect of environmental consciousness. As more people witness the serene beauty and ecological harmony of this practice, it could spark a deeper awareness of the impact our choices have—not only in life but also in death.

Ocean burials stand as a touching reminder that even in our final farewell, we can make a positive contribution to the world. They symbolize a profound respect for the natural cycle of life, a commitment to protecting our planet, and a desire to leave behind a legacy of love both for departed loved ones and for the generations to come.

While traditional burials often involve environmental concerns, choosing burial at sea offers a unique opportunity to give back to the earth in a sustainable way.

Here’s how:

• Support the marine ecosystem: Burial at sea eliminates the use of harmful chemicals associated with traditional burial methods, promoting a healthier environment for marine life.
• Embrace eco-friendly options: Opt for biodegradable materials like burial shrouds or caskets made from recycled paper or natural fabrics. This minimizes your environmental footprint while honoring your loved one.
• Personalize their final resting place: Explore the various personalization options available for sea burials, such as scattering biodegradable flowers or choosing a specific location for the ceremony.

If you’re seeking a meaningful and environmentally conscious way to say goodbye, we encourage you to explore our resources regarding the burial at sea.