Green Burials

What Are Green Burials?

Green burial is an eco-conscious choice for those who wish to reduce their environmental footprint, both locally and globally. It offers a natural and meaningful alternative to traditional burial practices, aligning with values that respect the life cycle and the earth’s renewal.

In a green burial, the body is not embalmed and is placed in a biodegradable shroud or a simple casket made from natural materials such as wicker, untreated wood, or other sustainable fibers. The goal is to allow the body to return to the earth naturally, supporting ecological balance.

This approach reflects burial traditions that have existed for thousands of years, offering a return to simplicity and a deeper connection with nature.

Green Burials at Earth's Option

Earth's Option is proud to be among the few funeral homes recognized by the Green Burial Society of Canada for meeting the standards of environmentally responsible funeral care. Green burials avoid harmful chemicals and non-biodegradable materials, focusing instead on natural options that return the body to the earth in the gentlest way possible.

We offer eco-friendly caskets and shrouds made from sustainable materials to ensure a respectful and natural burial process. The body is prepared without embalming, using refrigeration or natural methods such as essential oils or gentle washing. Families may choose from a range of services including home vigils, visitations, religious ceremonies, and graveside gatherings—each arranged within the time frame green burial allows. For pricing and merchandise details, please speak with your funeral director or request our supplemental price list.

Natural Burial in Victoria and the South Island
Salt Spring Island Natural Cemetery

Located in the serene Burgoyne Valley on Salt Spring Island, this natural cemetery rests between forested hills and coastal views. A short walk through the woods reveals a peaceful resting place surrounded by tall Douglas Firs and Maples—offering a quiet space for reflection, remembrance, and renewal.

The grounds include walking paths, areas for scattering ashes, and designated plots for both full-body and cremated remains. Small gatherings and outdoor ceremonies can also be arranged in harmony with the natural setting.

This protected land is registered as a provincial Place of Interment (License #78285) and secured for long-term preservation. A portion of each plot sale is placed in a perpetual care fund to ensure ongoing stewardship of the land.

We respectfully acknowledge that this land lies within the traditional territory of the Quw’utsun (Cowichan) and Coast Salish peoples. As caretakers, the cemetery’s mission is to contribute to the restoration of the endangered Coastal Douglas Fir ecosystem. Through burial here, families support the protection and growth of this unique forest landscape.

Among the native species found on the property are Salal, Sword Fern, Oregon Grape, and Vanilla Leaf, along with a variety of mosses, fungi, and lichens. Wildlife often seen in the area includes songbirds, owls, woodpeckers, eagles, and other forest creatures who call this land home.

Learn more about the cemetery here: www.saltspringcemetery.ca

The Woodlands at Royal Oak

Set within a Coastal Douglas Fir ecosystem, Royal Oak Burial Park is surrounded by a rich mix of native trees including Douglas Fir, Grand Fir, Red Alder, Bigleaf Maple, and Western Red Cedar. In areas where conditions are right, Garry Oak and Arbutus trees also thrive. The Woodlands area has been thoughtfully designed to enhance and support this natural forest setting.

As part of the burial process, native vegetation—such as trees, shrubs, perennials, and groundcover—is planted around each gravesite. Families are welcome to choose from a curated list of approved native plants to personalize their loved one’s resting place. In some cases, a young tree may be selected from the on-site nursery, and any open ground is restored with local grasses and wildflowers.

With time, each section of the Woodlands will take on its own natural character, forming peaceful "forest rooms" that seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape.

Learn more about The Woodlands here: www.royaloakburialpark.ca/green-burial/

Learn more about Green Burials with Linda Steele on CTVNews