Decades ago, cremation was the odd exit strategy for
Americans heading to the Great Hereafter.
Today, it’s fairly common. By the end of 2015, it will be more common than not.
That’s the upshot of a new survey showing the cremation rate
rising above 48% later this year, overtaking the rate of burials by nearly 2
percentage points.
The result is a sea change in American funeral practices: For
the first time in this country’s history – nearly 140 years after the first
modern cremation on U.S. soil took place in a makeshift hearth outside of
Pittsburgh – more of us will be cremated than buried.
The American Way of Death? It's looking more like Cremation
Nation.
And, well into the future, if that survey is right. By 2020,
the cremation rate will reach 56%. Ten years later, we’ll see 70% of all
Americans heading into the hearth.
Even more may follow their lead. According to one industry
official I spoke with, the U.S. cremation rate is likely to track to that of European countries where cremation is firmly entrenched: Sweden (77%),
Denmark (77%), and the U.K. (73%). Some, like Switzerland (85%) and the Czech
Republic (80%), boast higher rates yet.
Given our somewhat similar demographics to those countries and
the growing acceptance of cremation in this one, the official saw no reason we
wouldn’t, literally, go the way of that part of Europe.
But I’m not so sure. And here’s why: the green burial
movement.
From hundreds of conversations I’ve had with families, I can
tell you that the vast majority who come to green burial are converts from
cremation. Cremation, they tell me, had been their default choice. It was more
environment-friendly than modern burial, plus cheaper and a whole lot more
convenient.
Then they learned about natural burial. They read about RamseyCreek Preserve, where the dead are buried sans embalming in a Southern pine
forest. Saw pictures of handsome caskets made from wicker, sea grass, plain
pine boards, and other readily biodegradable materials. Learned that it was
possible to hold home funerals, build their own coffins, and return one’s
remains to some beautiful natural environment -- to push up a tree, nourish a
meadow, and rejoin the natural cycle that turns to benefit all those we leave
behind. And all this without the environmental drag of cremation, with its high
energy costs and resulting emissions.
Those families promptly changed their plans.
My evidence is anecdotally, I know. But it’s in keeping with
a couple of early surveys showing that roughly a quarter (and more) of
respondents say they are interested in green burial. A percentage that will
only grow, I’m convinced, as word about green burial spreads and as the number
of green cemeteries, home funeral providers, eco-casket makers and the like
continues to increase.
As it does, the cremation rate will dip. At the very least,
it won’t climb anywhere near as high as industry prognosticators would have us
believe.
An early sign that a shift may already be underway comes from one of
those Euro-cremation nations itself, Sweden, where a couple of years ago the
popularity of earth burial rose for the first time in 70 years. The environmental
benefits of burial over cremation was a main driver.
Green burial. When I look to the future, I see it's where
we’re headed.
Mark Harris, author
Grave Matters, “The signature book of the green burial trend,” Bangor Daily News
Grave Matters, “The signature book of the green burial trend,” Bangor Daily News
42 comments:
Let's have a look at cremation...
IT'S ENERGY INTENSIVE - each incineration uses approx 285 kWh of gas and 15 kWh of electricity.
IT CONTRIBUTES TO GLOBAL WARMING - Crematoria are not run at peak efficiency; the waste heat is not captured and reused; the aggregate CO2 emissions are considerable.
IT IS POLLUTING - a significant proportion of Mercury pollution comes from cremations. Cremations also constitute a significant source of dioxins and furans - persistent organic pollutants.
IT USES UP LAND - Crematoria gardens of remembrance are extensive, high maintenance, wildlife deserts, which generate huge amounts of waste.
IT'S WASTEFUL - Crematoria encourage the purchase of environmentally damaging imported or hot-house cut flowers, plastic trays, oasis, wire and cellophane, which are thrown away by the skip-load each week.
IT DAMAGES THE WIDER ENVIRONMENT - Imported headstones travel across the globe from gigantic environmentally catastrophic quarries. Pollutants travel downwind and contaminate land and reduce air quality. Ashes scattered on iconic mountain tops change the soil characteristics there and the fragile native flora dies.
IT’S A CONVEYOR-BELT PROCESS - 30 minutes, five to get settled, twenty for a hymn, a reading, a eulogy and a favourite song while the curtains close, and five to get out. That's it - in, done, out, next...
We deserve better, we should make our last moments speak positively of how we care for those we leave behind. Make them proud of us - choose natural burial, a more discerning, generous choice.
Great to hear from you, James.
I agree with you about the detriments of cremation, which in part is why I think natural burial will curb its appeal. That and having more natural cemeteries like Usk Castle Chase, images of which I show in my presentations.
Great statistics and information. Cremation is becoming more and more preferred choice of funerals not only in USA but also around the world.
That is interesting that by 2030 most people are going to be choosing cremation over a normal burial. I don't know if I could ever choose cremation for when I did. In my opinion that is something I want to let my loved ones decide. It is more for them than it is for me after all. Cremation
I had no idea that cremation was so popular in Europe. The fact that some countries, like the Czech Republic, have a cremation rate of 80% is incredible. I've heard a lot about the benefits of cremation. I've learned a lot more about it lately since my grandma is requesting to be cremated when she dies. Hopefully we can find a good service to help make her wish a reality after she's gone. Thanks for the article, Mark! http://affordableburialandcremation.ca/
I agree with your prediction that cremation services and natural burials will be the trend in the coming years. As you mentioned, I also learned of natural burials as I was researching cremation. I think they are both awesome alternatives to a traditional burial.
http://www.romerofuneralhome.com/what-we-do/funeral-services
The natural way to be buried is the way I want to go out for sure. I either want to be cremated and have my ashes just blow in the wind, or be buried under a growing tree so I could be a part of that tree. I want to go out naturally, I don't want to be preserved in some coffin underground. Thanks for the share, it's really interesting we are shifting to more natural burials. http://www.tonyhollandsfunerals.com.au/costs-and-choices/budget-cremation-only
It really is interesting to think about all the different kinds of options that are available when it comes to funeral homes. I personally think that there are so many ways to know whether you have the right home lined up. Hopefully these different options and overviews will be helpful to those who are in need of choices. My wife is thinking about what kind of funeral home will be a great option for her mom who is currently very sick. Thank you for sharing your information.
http://conboywestchesterfh.com
It is good news that the Morden Cremation established in USA. Now cremated is held more than buried. As a result, pollution must be decreased. Sweden (77%), Denmark (77%), and the U.K. (73%). Some, like Switzerland (85%) and the Czech Republic (80%), these are the country that encourages us to accept the Morden Cremation. But few people like that perfect Cremation Urn for Your Loved One's Ashes are the best for them.
That is an interesting consideration that cremation seems to be the go to resource for most people's final arrangements. I am not sure what all is entailed in the process to set up a cremation service. However, it seems less complex than physical, casket burials.
http://www.leewardfuneralhome.com/what-we-do/funeral-services
Hi guys,
Thank you so much for this wonderful article really!
If someone want to learn more about that Funeral I think this is the right place for you!
If you've recently heard of the death of someone you know, you may feel a mixture of sadness and anxiety. The anxiety could be from uncertainty about proper funeral etiquette. Knowing what to do and say at a funeral can make a solemn situation more comfortable. See more here caskets-coffins.com
i Like Your Blog Very Much..I see Daily Your Blog ,is A Very Usefull For me.
You Can see also my services..
Cremation funeral North Carolina - $695 Loving Care Cremations 877-346-1586 Trusted, Dignity, Caring & Professional Loving Care Cremations & Funeral Services Serving all of North Carolina. 24/7 Help for your needs. We Provide Memorials, Cremations, Funerals, Urn’s, & more. Make Arrangements. Call 877-346-158
Visit Now - http://www.lovingcarecremations.com
Hello my dear,
I see your blog every day ... your blog is Very useful for me and I love so much ...
You can see
$695 Loving Care Cremations 877-346-1586 Trusted, Dignity, Caring & Professional Loving Care Cremations & Funeral Services
Serving all of North Carolina. 24/7 Help for your needs. We Provide Memorials, Cremations, Funerals, Urn’s, & more. Make
Arrangements. Call 877-346-1586
Visit Now - affordable cremation North Carolina
This is an interesting read. I thought American's are for cremation. Personally, my family and I are into cremation. That's why we avail cremation funeral plans from St Peter Life Plans.
Our Am Israel Mortuary see more and more people getting cremated these days and having more memorial services. Thank you for the great information on the change in cremation numbers.
Well said! Cremation has emerged in recent decades as a viable alternative to burial, due to both its lower costs and the belief by some that it is more environmentally friendly.
Direct Cremation Services Tampa
Better one!!!
When you engage in the cremation and funeral services of a funeral home that you trust, the funeral director help you plan your cremation or burial. He can help you buy the service and goods that you need for the process. so call me at 815-978-4018 or go here: https://www.affordablecremationbelvidere.com
Better one!!!
When you engage in the cremation and funeral services of a funeral home that you trust, the funeral director help you plan your cremation or burial. He can help you buy the service and goods that you need for the process. so call me at 815-978-4018 or go here: https://www.affordablecremationbelvidere.com
Better one!!!
When you engage in the cremation and funeral services of a funeral home that you trust, the funeral director help you plan your cremation or burial. He can help you buy the service and goods that you need for the process.
Affordable Cremation and Funeral Service of Belvidere is the alternative to high priced funeral homes. We have simplified the funeral planning process by offering cremation and funeral packages for one low price. So visit here and get affordable Funeral Home Cremation Packages
If you looking for Rockford funeral home at affordable price then definitely you should go affordablecremationbelvidere, because we are providing all related funeral service at affordable price your critical time. For more info connected with us thru: 815-978-4018 or
Nice Blog!!
The flowers that are used to consecrate the dead in the old times are now used to adorn the burial site or casket. Sending flowers is the best way to let the dead know that you remember him. Although you can have any flower or arrangement style at your memorial or funeral services, there are specific flower and arrangements that are common. When you hire the best Rockford Funeral Homes, they will take care of the flower arrangements for you. So join with us because we always stand for your help at this crucial time.
Nice info! There are so many changes in Modern Funeral Industry to a Natural Way of Burial.Cheap Cremation Huntley IL provided by harmony cremation.
Thank author for it. I like such topics and everything connected to this matter. I definitely want to read more soon. cremation services
Nice and informative article, Thanks for sharing this information with us. Contact for Cremation and Funeral Flower Services
percocet for sale usa
percocet for sale canada
order percocet uk
Percocet
buy viagra online uk
buy cheap viagra online
order viagra 50mg 100mg online
where to buy viagra online usa
Buy Viagra 50mg 100mg Online
order hydrocodone online uk and usa
where to buy hydrocodone online
best quality hydrocodone for sale
purchase hydrocodone online
Buy Hydrocodone Online
best quality Roxicodone for sale online
where to buy roxicodone online
Roxicodone for sale online
purchase Roxicodone online usa
Buy Roxicodone Online
Sour Diesel Shatter
Afghan Kush
AK-47
White Widow
where to order OG Kush online
Thanks for sharing the such information with us.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral Reception is very important as people parry and show there support and love to the loved once.
Keep sharing such informative posts. Best funeral arrangement provider offers funeral, Burial memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding areas.
veterans funeral planning
تنظيف خزانات بالرياض
شركة تنظيف خزانات بالرياض
شركة تنظيف خزانات بالباحة
شركة تنظيف خزانات بالخرج
شركة تنظيف خزانات بالدمام
شركة تنظيف خزانات بالاحساء
Thanks for sharing this Informative blog. if you are finding Direct Cremation than visit our site. Direct Cremation Birmingham
Thanks for sharing such informative Blog. Direct Cremation Visit our site.
Thanks for sharing such informative Blog. Direct Cremation Doncaster Visit our site.
Help Ukraine Online
Come back alive fund
donations in cryptocurrency
Donate Now
Know About US
Contact us to support Ukraine
Great information.Thanks for sharing your information! Direct Cremation Leeds
Nice and informative post..Thanks for sharing your information. Direct Cremation Barnsley
Cremation and Funeral Service
provided compassionate service during a difficult time. Their professionalism and care eased our burden. Highly recommend their services to anyone in need.
Thank you for sharing this helpful information about Rockford Funeral Homes. It's always valuable to have resources available for such important and sensitive matters. Your insights are greatly appreciated
Post a Comment