Even in areas deeply rooted in tradition, like Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, families are considering alternatives to traditional funerals and burials. Many are including green or eco-friendly elements in their funeral plans.

Here are some of the ways Cincinnati area funerals are becoming more environmentally-friendly:

Limiting the Use of Chemicals

An increasing number of families in the region are bypassing using potentially harmful chemicals like formaldehyde in the embalming process. These chemicals can ultimately make their way into the earth, damaging our planet.

Selecting Biodegradable Burial Options

Rather than choosing a resource using a casket and concrete vault, families are opting for biodegradable caskets or even burial shrouds.

Choosing a Green Cemetery

Green cemeteries are those dedicated to making efficient use of the land and natural resources.

Streaming Services

Some families are considering streaming final services to save fuel and resources for travel. This can be particularly valuable where family and friends may be widespread across the country.

Lower Total Costs

Green and environmentally friendly final services often have another practical benefit. They can result in lower costs.

Green burials often mean savings on concrete vaults, expensive hardwood caskets and ornamentation, and embalming costs.

When many suggest they don’t want to “waste money” on a funeral, they are really suggesting they don’t want something extravagant or excessive.

A green funeral can satisfy this desire by making efficient use of both natural and financial resources.

Request Memorial Contributions for Environmentally-Friendly Causes

Request memorial contributions be made in memory of the deceased to eco-friendly organizations. These could include national organizations or even purchasing a bench in a local park or bike trail.

Choose Cremations

While choices can be made to make a traditional funeral and burial more green, some believe the best option to preserve the planet is to choose cremation. Cremation can minimize the use of resources and space. It also bypasses the use of chemicals and concrete vaults.

Going Green Is the Right Thing to Do

Ultimately, for many families, a funeral that employs green strategies is simply the right thing to do. More and more families have spent their lives using environmentally friendly products, recycling household materials, and focusing on preserving the planet’s natural resources.

It would make sense then that any final services be planned with the same care towards the environment. It has become a practical and increasingly common part of the funeral planning process in the Greater Cincinnati area.

Learn More about Your Options When Planning a Green Funeral

At Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory, we offer a full range of services for just about any family. We operate the Greater Cincinnati area’s only privately-owned crematorium.

We can assist in planning services that are respectful and reflect the personality and wishes of your loved one. Reach out to us to discuss what is right for you and your family.