Natural burial in Dorset

Are you seeking an alternative to conventional cemeteries or crematorium memorial gardens? Somewhere that is in harmony with the natural world?

Dorset Downs Natural Burial Ground is a place where timeless tranquillity and environmental sustainability intertwine. High on the chalkland downs, the characteristic landscape of Dorset, the burial ground offers the opportunity to be at rest in glorious, open countryside.

What is a natural burial?

A natural burial, also called a green burial, is an environmentally friendly and eco-conscious approach to laying a loved one to rest. Unlike conventional burials, which often involve embalming, metal or MDF caskets, imported granite headstones and concrete vaults, natural burials are focused on returning the body to the earth in a way that minimises environmental impact.

Here are some key characteristics of a natural burial:

Biodegradable materials: The deceased is typically placed in a biodegradable casket, shroud, or container made from natural materials like wood, wicker, or cloth. These materials break down naturally over time.

• No embalming: Embalming, a toxic chemical preservation process, is not used in natural burials. This helps prevent the release of harmful chemicals into the soil.
• No plastic: The coffin must be lined with natural materials, rather than a plastic sheet. Flowers should be hand-tied with raffia or natural materials, not wrapped in plastic or set in a foam oasis and a plastic tray.
• Digital markers: Unlike cemeteries, the graves are not marked. Instead, we use a digital map and survey points to measure each grave. Families are given the longitude and latitude, as well as a what3words address for the location of their loved one’s grave.
• Protecting the landscape: Many natural burial grounds are established in protected, scenic areas, contributing to preserving these natural landscapes.
• Return to the earth: Natural burials support the ecosystem by allowing the body to decompose naturally, enriching the soil with nutrients, and benefiting local flora and fauna.

Where is Dorset Downs natural burial ground?

The burial ground is located a few miles west of Dorchester, off the A35 towards Compton Valence. If you are visiting the burial ground, please use the Google Maps location for Dorset Downs, rather than the postcode (which will not take you to the entrance).

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