The environment is a growing concern for the Quebec population. The subject is at the very heart of discussions and everyone is trying their best to do their part in order to reduce their ecological footprint. But what about when we leave the world of the living? Is it possible to remain environmentally concerned even after death? The Aeterna Funeral Complex sheds light on the question and provides some tips for a greener funeral.

Making funerals ecological
Generally speaking, a number of aspects can be discussed beforehand when the deceased or the family is concerned about making the funeral "carbon neutral". For example, having all the rituals in one place to limit travel is a good start. You can also inquire about the environmental actions taken by the chosen funeral provider (recycling, electricity, etc.). Bear in mind that you have control over your choice of rituals, the means of disposition of the body and your desire to make a difference.

The materials and their source
Whether you choose burial or cremation, take note that these two options don’t win a gold medal for ecology... However, there are a variety of options to help you make your departure from this world more environmentally friendly. First, you can choose an eco-friendly urn or casket. Whether it's made of recycled wood fibre or untreated reclaimed wood, it's best to choose a fast-growing wood species like bamboo or poplar. Moreover, it is important to ensure that the entire container is biodegradable (lid, handles, etc.). Cardboard caskets are also gaining in popularity as they are completely biodegradable, in addition to not producing toxic fumes during cremation. Furthermore, they considerably reduce the cremation time from an average of 2½ hours to 90 minutes. Whatever choice you make, be sure to select non-toxic products such as glue and vegetable varnishes, which will limit the fumes during the cremation and won't pollute the soil once buried.

You can also give priority to products that are designed by local artisans or companies. Don't be shy to ask where the casket or urn comes from; funeral providers will be proud to show you their choice of locally-made containers. Give preference to local companies, such as Victoriaville&Co and Cercueil Magog, which offer high-quality products.

Eco-responsibility at funerals
In addition to the rituals and disposal methods, there are many small actions you can take to make your funeral green. For example, choosing a funeral provider that uses reusable dishes instead of plastic or cardboard ones, choosing recycled paper for bookmarks, tributes, etc., and offering a plant instead of a floral arrangement are all small actions that will make a difference. You can also choose to plant a tree to offset the environmental cost of a traditional funeral. Of course, the tree alone is not enough, but this action will help produce more oxygen in the air. And there can never be too many trees...

Other options for disposal of the deceased
Little known to the general public, aquamation and humusation are slowly but surely making their way into Quebec. The first one makes it possible to dispose of the body through a physico-chemical process (decomposition using an alkaline solution), while the second one transforms the human body into compost with the help of micro-organisms—two solutions considered to be more ecological. Better known than the previous ones, the use of a jute bag, containing the ashes of the deceased, that is buried at the foot of a tree in a cemetery is also an interesting and natural option. These options are gradually becoming more common and will gradually become part of our funeral customs.

Although a large part of the population is interested in ecological funerals, price is still a major factor when it comes to making a choice, as affordability concerns often need to take priority over convictions and principles. Just as buying local and hand-made are more expensive, green funerals will be more expensive as well. At Aeterna Funeral Complex, we are committed to listening to you and offering you options that respect your environmental convictions and budget. Any specific requests? Talk to one of our advisors, who will be able to guide you and answer all your questions.