When it comes to the vision for Alaska Natural Burial, sometimes it's easier to show than tell. Here is a collection of some of our favorite images and videos that capture the intention and spirit of natural burial.
Image Gallery
We can't wait to share images of Alaska Natural Burial as a functioning conservation burial ground. Until then, here's a look at the amazing work being done by conservation burial grounds elsewhere in the country, and some images from "Parcel 2-156" (our *hopefully* future home).
These images capture the differences between natural burial and conventional burial. Check out the variations in grave markers (including GPS markers) and the extent to which family participation is encouraged (from the procession to the interment and decorating the grave). Burial containers also stand out -- they are all made of natural fibers and are readily biodegradable; many families have opted to forego the casket altogether, choosing to use a shroud and body board instead. Fresh graves appear to be mounded quite tall, but these settle over time. A true return to nature.
These images capture the differences between natural burial and conventional burial. Check out the variations in grave markers (including GPS markers) and the extent to which family participation is encouraged (from the procession to the interment and decorating the grave). Burial containers also stand out -- they are all made of natural fibers and are readily biodegradable; many families have opted to forego the casket altogether, choosing to use a shroud and body board instead. Fresh graves appear to be mounded quite tall, but these settle over time. A true return to nature.
More images -- Green burial goods and images from Kokosing Nature Preserve and Larkspur Conservation
Images from Parcel 2-156
Videos
Steelmantown
Ed Bixby is a well-known name in the green burial community. This video captures his professional transition from land developer to green burial advocate, through the revitalization of Steelmantown Cemetery.
Watch for:
Ed Bixby is a well-known name in the green burial community. This video captures his professional transition from land developer to green burial advocate, through the revitalization of Steelmantown Cemetery.
Watch for:
- a conventional funeral director's take on natural burial
- family participation in the shrouding and burial of a loved one
- how a love of nature and natural burial go hand-in-hand
- "All you can hope for is a sendoff that leaves people feeling happy that they knew you instead of only sad that you're gone"
How to Dig a Grave
What is it like to get down into the dirt and actually carve out a human body’s final resting place? Atlas Obscura Director of Video Chris Naka decided to find out, with help from Ed Bixby, owner and operator of Steelmantown Cemetery in Woodbine, New Jersey.
What is it like to get down into the dirt and actually carve out a human body’s final resting place? Atlas Obscura Director of Video Chris Naka decided to find out, with help from Ed Bixby, owner and operator of Steelmantown Cemetery in Woodbine, New Jersey.
PBS Newshour story: Dying Green
Interview with Billy Campbell, a conservation burial pioneer in the US, talking about the documentary Dying Green.
Interview with Billy Campbell, a conservation burial pioneer in the US, talking about the documentary Dying Green.
Other films worth seeing (behind a paywall -- if you find free access online please let us know!)
- Bury Me at Taylor Hollow
- A Will for the Woods
- Dying Green
