Submitted by Stuart Burgess
The March 1st Bruce Peninsula Environment Group (B.P.E.G.) meeting was a well-attended and well-received presentation by Susan Greer of The Natural Burial Association. Appearing via Zoom, Ms. Greer gave an overview of the natural burial movement, and showed some images of existing cemeteries where natural burials are available.
She pointed out that a hybrid cemetery is probably the best way for a community to offer this alternative means of treating human remains after death.
In a hybrid situation, a regular cemetery designates an area for natural interment. Biodegradable materials contain the body (a shroud or plain casket) and nature is allowed to restore the site to its previous state. Native trees, shrubs, and flowers can be planted if desired.
Following the Zoom presentation, an animated discussion was held, with many questions and contributions from the audience.
Some of the results of a recent Northern Bruce survey about natural burials was presented, the most pertinent, perhaps, being that of the 161 submissions, 94% would like to see the option of a natural burial area in our community.
In an environmentally sensitive area such as N.B.P., with a large proportion of the population in their senior years, a natural burial site seems to be a fitting and desirable option.
A video recording of the meeting is available through the B.P.E.G. website
