Green Burial in Illinois
We believe that the way we honor and care for our loved ones should reflect their values, and for many families today, those values include a deep respect for the environment. That’s why we’re pleased to announce that Midtown is now officially licensed with the Green Burial Council (GBC), one of the leading organizations setting rigorous standards for environmentally responsible funerals. This certification ensures that our services meet strict criteria for sustainability, transparency, and minimal environmental impact.
What Is Green (Natural) Burial?
Green burial, also known as natural burial, is a return to simpler earth-friendly traditions. Instead of the resource-intensive practices common in conventional burials, green burial allows for decomposition to occur naturally.
Key elements of a green burial include:
- No embalming, or using special non-toxic, biodegradable preservation methods. This eliminates formaldehyde and other harsh chemicals that can linger in the soil and groundwater.
- Biodegradable containers or shrouds. Simple wooden caskets made from sustainably sourced materials (such as pine, bamboo, willow, or seagrass), cardboard, or even a beautiful cloth shroud. No metal hardware or non-degradable materials.
- No concrete vaults or grave liners. The deceased is placed directly into the earth, allowing natural decomposition and nutrients to return to the soil.
- Natural memorialization. Many green burial grounds encourage native plantings, flat markers, or no gravestone at all to preserve the natural landscape.
The result is a burial that supports land conservation, reduces carbon emissions, and helps create or preserve wildlife habitats rather than consuming non-renewable resources. We believe every family deserves choices, and green burial is a meaningful way to celebrate life while caring for the planet.
