At last week’s meeting, Jeff Hodes, a cemetery industry veteran of more than 47 years, explained what “green burial” really means — and why there are many shades of green. He pointed out that natural burial is gaining attention as an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional burial and cremation.

Jeff explained that natural burial generally eliminates three things: chemical embalming, concrete burial vaults, and conventional caskets containing metals or finishes. Instead, biodegradable materials such as pine caskets or burial shrouds allow a simpler return to the earth.

He emphasized that natural burial isn’t necessarily new; in many ways, it’s a return to practices common before the Civil War. He also discussed newer alternatives, including
water cremation and human composting.

A few cemeteries near Winchester, such as Cool Springs in Berryville and Duck Run near Harrisonburg, offer natural burial options, although their environmental practices differ. Jeff underscored the need to understand the differences and choices before making a decision.