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Vashon Cemetery's first green burial serves as a model for communities across the country - let our story pave the way for you and yours.
Tuesday, February 14th, 2023
Dear Vashon Loop readers and subscribers,
Wow! You can tell I’m “out of the loop,” given that I only just now realized, it’s Valentine’s Day!
It might also seem weird to post about “green burials” on a day like today, but truly, at what times in our lives do we feel the most love? At the exact moment that one’s child is born, our hearts can fill to bursting, with love for a person we’ve only just met. Similarly, upon the losing of a friend or family member, the searing ache of absence reminds us of love long felt. And so it goes.
Let’s look at a couple questions and their commonly misunderstood answers. Then, I’ll give you the link to our awesome front-page article that has the power to change how loved ones are buried in your community.
(1) Are green burials illegal in the United States of America?
Quick Answer: No!
(2) Are traditional burial procedures dictated by law or government ordinance?
Quick Answer: No!
While each community differs in some details, common burial techniques (from embalming to concrete vaults) are the result of cemetery management, tradition, cultural expectations and societal inertia. Not law. For those seeking environmentally friendly, green burials and for all who wish to return to the Earth, with less chemicals and in a more natural condition, there is hope! Read the article here.
