2026 Update: An Eco-Friendly Alternative:Should You Consider a Green Burial?

Apr 22

Interest in environmentally conscious end-of-life options continues to grow, and many of our clients are asking how their final arrangements can reflect their values. Since we first explored green burial options in 2023, both availability and legal frameworks have evolved. In addition to traditional green burials, newer alternatives, like human composting, are expanding what it means to “return to the earth.”

Here is an updated look at your options.

What Is a Green Burial?

A green (or natural) burial is an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional burial practices. Instead of embalming chemicals, metal caskets, and concrete vaults, the body is:

Wrapped in a biodegradable shroud or placed in a simple wooden box (often pine)
Buried without embalming fluids or toxic chemicals
Interred at a shallower depth to encourage natural decomposition

These methods reduce environmental impact and allow the body to return naturally to the ecosystem. Some families also choose to incorporate tree plantings or natural memorials in place of traditional headstones.

Cremated remains can also be handled in eco-conscious ways, such as burial in biodegradable urns or scattering in designated areas.

A Practice Rooted in Tradition

While green burial may feel like a modern movement, it is actually a return to long-standing traditions. Before the Civil War, most burials in the United States were natural. Embalming became widespread largely out of necessity—to transport fallen soldiers home.

Today, many states, including Georgia, no longer require embalming, making green burial more accessible than it has been in generations.

Green Burial Options in Georgia: Updated

Georgia continues to offer a small but meaningful number of dedicated green burial sites:

Honey Creek Woodlands (Conyers, GA)
Located on the grounds of the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Honey Creek offers over 100 acres dedicated to conservation-focused burial. Both full-body and cremated remains burials are permitted, though ash scattering is not allowed. The site emphasizes land preservation, wildlife habitat, and natural beauty.

Milton Fields Natural Burial Ground (Milton, GA)
With approximately 17 acres, Milton Fields is designed to support thousands of natural burials. It allows both full-body and cremated remains burials, as well as the scattering of ashes offering families more flexibility in memorialization.

Whispering Hills Natural Green Cemetery and Memorial Nature Preserve (LaGrange, GA)
Opened in 2021, Whispering Hills blends burial practices with land conservation. It permits burial and ash scattering, though scattered remains must go through a soil-mixing process designed to promote plant growth. Families should plan ahead, as this process begins months in advance.

Additional Developments
Since 2023, interest in green burial has continued to rise nationwide. While Georgia still has relatively few dedicated sites, more hybrid cemeteries and funeral providers are beginning to offer green sections or services. It is worth checking locally, as options may continue to expand.

What About Human Composting?

One of the most significant developments since our original post is the legalization of human composting, also known as natural organic reduction, in Georgia.

This process transforms human remains into nutrient-rich soil through controlled, natural decomposition. The body is placed in a vessel with organic materials such as wood chips and straw, and over the course of several weeks, it breaks down into soil that can be returned to loved ones or used in conservation efforts.

What Georgia families should know:

Human composting has been legal in Georgia since July 1, 2025
It offers one of the lowest environmental impacts of any end-of-life option
It can be a meaningful choice for those who want to “give back” to the earth in a tangible way

Important note:
While legal, this option is still developing locally. At present, there are no widely operating in-state facilities, which means arrangements may require coordination with providers in other states. This makes advance planning especially important.

Planning Ahead Matters

Whether you prefer a green burial, cremation, or emerging options like human composting, the most important step is making your wishes known and legally enforceable.

Including your preferences in your estate plan:

Ensures your wishes are honored
Reduces uncertainty and stress for your loved ones
Allows you to align your legacy with your values

Clear instructions can also help your family navigate newer options, like human composting, that may involve additional logistics.