A green burial is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burials and cremation. It usually takes place in a natural or woodland burial ground, or in a designated area within a conventional cemetery. There are many natural/woodland burial sites in Scotland.
A biodegradable coffin or casket is used, which should be made from natural or sustainable materials such as wicker, willow, bamboo, banana leaf, cardboard or wool.
Not all natural/woodland burial sites will permit the grave to be marked with a headstone – some will identify the grave by a tree or flowers to ensure it is indistinguishable from the natural surroundings. Many natural or woodland burial grounds will however supply a map so the family may visit the site of their loved one. Those that do not provide maps advise families to treat the whole woodland as a memorial to their loved one.