The Future of Funerals: Eco-Friendly Funerals in India

• Electric cremation

• Water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis)

• Biodegradable urns for ashes

• Natural/green burial without embalming

Each of these options is designed to preserve natural resources and leave a lighter ecological footprint.
 

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How to Plan an Eco-Friendly Funeral in India

Planning a green funeral in India may seem challenging given the dominance of traditional customs, but it’s entirely possible and respectful of religious sentiments. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a Green Cremation Option

• Electric cremation: Available in many municipal crematoriums (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.).

• Water cremation: Still emerging in India but under discussion in eco-conscious circles.

• Woodless or low-wood cremation: Hybrid models that use less wood or natural gas.

2. Select Biodegradable Funeral Products

• Use cloth shrouds instead of chemically treated coffins.

• Choose biodegradable urns for ash storage or immersion.

• Opt for natural flowers and organic garlands over synthetic ones.

3. Avoid Harmful Ritual Materials

• Say no to thermocol, plastic wreaths, or chemically dyed fabrics.

• Use natural ingredients like turmeric, sandalwood powder, and ghee.

4. Limit Travel and Emissions

• Encourage carpooling for guests.

• Host prayer meetings or condolence gatherings virtually to reduce carbon footprints.

5. Partner with an Eco-Conscious Funeral Service Provider

At Last Journey, we offer sustainable funeral planning and green cremation support across Delhi NCR and other metro cities in India.

What Are the Green Funeral Options Available in India?

Here are several green funeral options families can consider:

1. Electric Cremation

✅ Low carbon footprint
✅ No wood burning or smoke
✅ Now available in most major Indian cities
Many municipalities are encouraging electric crematoriums as a viable public solution.

2. Water Cremation (Alkaline Hydrolysis)

While not widely available in India yet, water cremation is gaining interest for its gentle and eco-friendly process. It uses water and alkali instead of fire to return the body to nature.

Searches for "an alternative to cremation using water" and "alkaline hydrolysis cremation" are steadily rising, signaling growing interest in the method.

3. Natural or Green Burial

Instead of cremation, the body is buried using a biodegradable shroud, with no embalming or concrete vaults. Though not yet mainstream in India, natural burial grounds are under consideration in private and spiritual eco-communities.

4. Memorial Tree Planting

Some families now choose to plant a tree in memory of their loved one using cremated ashes in biodegradable urns that nourish the soil.
 

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