‘Green burial ground’ set for Gloucester woodland
Trees will create ‘natural gravestones’
By Pam Caulfield, 24dash.com
Conservationists in Gloucester can continue to help the environment after they die. An area of the city council’s New Millennium Cemetery at Coney Hill has been set aside as a natural burial ground.
But since it was opened in October last year only three people have opted for the ‘green burials.’
The aim is to establish a permanent and protected woodland area that encourages plants, insects, birds and animals.
The area will be left largely in its natural state with grass only being cut occasionally. Natural wildflowers will be encouraged and trees will be planted as an alternative to gravestones.
Julienne Reeves the Cemetery Manager, said: “Only bio-degradable coffins will be allowed and the intention is that we have what is to all intents and purposes a natural woodland area.
“There will be no gravestones but a careful record will be kept so that the precise locations of the burials can be identified. A variety of trees will be planted but not at the exact location of the burial sites.
“With concern for the environment attracting increasing interest we expect more people to enquire about this alternative method of burial.
” It will create a unique and very special memorial.”
Source - http://www.24dash.com/environment/18845.htm