Publication Date
5-8-2024
Description
Green burial, an environmentally conscious approach to the interment of human remains, has gained traction globally as a sustainable alternative to conventional burial practices. Traditional burials, characterized by embalming and the use of non-biodegradable materials, contribute to resource consumption and environmental degradation. In response, green burial promotes practices that prioritize ecological conservation, such as refraining from embalming, using biodegradable caskets or shrouds, and minimizing land disturbance. This report details the work of three Bucknell University ENST 411 students researching green burial opportunities and awareness in Central Pennsylvania, and their work with a community partner, Farida Zaid, to lay the foundations of a non-profit organization aimed at promoting and developing green burial locally as well as providing resources for the public in order to facilitate positive end-of-life conversations and planning. These efforts include extensive literature review of topics relating to all aspects of green burial and aging processes, developing an image and online presence for the organization ‘Last Footprints’, and assisting in the process of land acquisition for a future green burial site.
Keywords
Green burial, Union County, Snyder County, Last Footprints, Walnut Acres
Rights
©2024 Madeline Liebegott, Kelley Schutte, Nathan Peot
Course Instructor
Amanda Wooden
Department
Environmental Studies
Location
Union County