**Green Burial in Vermont: A Perspective from Bill Schubart**
In a recent commentary by Bob Stannard on death and dying in VTDigger, an octogenarian friend, Bill Schubart, was prompted to reflect on his own views. Schubart and his wife have made it clear that they want green burials when their time comes. However, despite having 14 cemeteries in their hometown of Hinesburg, none of them allow for natural or green burials. The closest green burial site is located in Vermont Forest Cemetery, approximately 40 miles away. As of 2023, out of the 2000 cemeteries in Vermont, only 15 permitted green burials.
Complexity of Green Burial
At a recent memorial service for a neighbor and friend, Schubart learned firsthand the challenges of finding and using a green burial site. Green burial, which has been the primary form of interment for most of human history, involves laying the deceased to rest without chemical embalming, liners, or concrete vaults. Biodegradable materials such as linen shrouds, pine coffins, or no container at all are used, and the body is buried at a shallower depth to facilitate natural biodegradation.
Comparison with Cremation
Currently, over 60% of Americans opt for cremation over traditional burial, which often involves embalming with toxic chemicals and the use of exotic caskets and concrete vaults. While cremation releases significant amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, green burial offers a more environmentally friendly alternative.
Historical and Cultural Perspectives
Schubart shares his experiences witnessing various burial customs around the world, from traditional cremations near the Ganges in India to the Terracotta Army in China. Each culture has its unique way of honoring the deceased, reflecting their beliefs and traditions.
Personal Reflection and Call to Action
For Schubart and his wife, the idea of a green burial resonates deeply with their values of living in harmony with nature. They see it as a regenerative process that enriches the earth and supports future generations. With the rising costs of traditional funerals, green burial offers a more affordable and sustainable option that can benefit both the environment and society.
Schubart hopes to see more communities embrace green burial practices to protect the earth and reduce the financial burden on families. He encourages people to explore green burial options through resources like the Green Burial Council’s website.
As Schubart fondly recalls the childhood euphemism of “pushing up daisies” for death, his ultimate goal is to return to the earth in a natural, nurturing way. May we all consider the legacy we leave behind and the impact of our final resting place on the world around us.
