I just met with three members of the board, a landscape architect, and a media specialist at a local cemetery that does natural burial. We stood around the recent natural burial sites and talked about how beautiful it was, what families want, and how this particular cemetery is doing green burials. This cemetery has listened to what families want and honored that and begun offering this option, despite possible repercussions or fears. They are figuring it out as they go. As we shared feelings and ideas we ended up shaking our heads and asking, “Why don’t more cemeteries offer this?”
The primary reason is lack of information and willingness to go against the prevailing cultural norm. But if we spread the word that this is what folks want, we can change the paradigm. I advocate “Beating the drum slowly and marching from the center.” Reach out and share what you know. Have the courage to talk about it.