Last updated: April 9, 2026
Caring for the environment
Many people today care a lot about the environment. A recent survey showed that 77% of UK adults worry about climate change and its effects*. This also includes thinking about what happens at the end of life. More people now want funeral choices that are kinder to the planet and match their values.
This guide will help you understand the options available, from well‑known choices to newer ideas, so you can make the decision that feels right for you.
Burial vs cremation: What’s better for the environment?
For more than 50 years, traditional cremation has been the most common choice in the UK. In 2024, over 80% of funerals were cremations. But a normal gas cremation produces about 126 kg of CO₂e, which is similar to driving a car from Brighton to Edinburgh. Because of this, some people are starting to consider burial as an alternative.
Burials do not use fuel like cremation does, but it still has effects on the environment. Burials use land and, if embalming fluids are used, they can sometimes cause problems for the surrounding area. This means that comparing burial and cremation is not simple.
Woodland burial: A natural choice
Woodland burials are becoming more popular for people who want a more natural return to the earth. There are over 270 natural burial grounds across the UK, and most funeral directors can help families find one nearby.
Woodland burials do not use embalming, and they use biodegradable coffins. This makes them a peaceful and more eco‑friendly choice than a traditional cemetery.
Water cremation (hydrolysis): A future possibility
Water cremation, also known as hydrolysis or resomation, is a gentle method that creates much lower emissions than flame-based cremation.
It has now been legally recognised in Scotland and is being considered in England and Wales. When the ruling was passed in early 2026, no commercial providers offer this service to the public in the UK. This means it is something that may be available in the future, but it cannot be chosen today.
The future of funerals: Composting and tree pods
Ideas like human composting and tree pod burials imagine cemeteries turning into forests. These ideas are interesting, but they are not legal or regulated in the UK as yet. The Law Commission is studying these new methods and is expected to report in 2026, but at the moment, they remain ideas for the future and not options you can choose today.
Choosing a biodegradable coffin
One simple way to make a funeral more eco‑friendly is to choose a biodegradable coffin. These can be made from willow, bamboo, recycled paper, or even mushroom fibres. They break down naturally and don’t leave harmful materials behind. This is a meaningful choice for anyone planning a burial.
How to plan an environmentally friendly funeral
Even though not all eco‑options are available yet, you can still plan a funeral that is better for the environment. The most important step is to tell your family your wishes, either in a funeral plan or in conversation.
You can ask for a woodland burial or a biodegradable coffin. Independent funeral directors in our UK‑wide network can explain what is available in your area and help make sure your wishes are followed.
You can find your nearest Golden Charter‑approved funeral director on our website—just look for the Golden Charter seal.
If you’d like to learn more about what a funeral plan includes, and how it can support you and your family, you can explore our funeral plans on our website.
