Biodegradable Coffins and Shrouds
Only coffins which are environmentally friendly are acceptable for green burials. Many different types of coffins are available, willow, cardboard, bamboo and wood from sustainable resources, like solid pine. They can be painted or printed with a design or a simple shroud, is another green choice. Suitable coffins can be supplied by funeral directors.
Mitre Coffins
Bespoke wooden coffins Hand Made in Herefordshire
Peter Bishop
The Old Carpenters Shop, Kinnersley, Hereford, HR3 6QB
Tel: 01544 327540
Email: info@mitrecoffins.co.uk
Mitre Coffins are made from timbers that would otherwise be wasted, providing a bespoke alternative to other natural products. Each of these coffins are handmade, using traditional methods. Peter also offers the option for you to assist in the building of the coffin and can provide guidance on how to build your own coffin.
Woven Farewell Coffins
Handwoven willow coffins from Sophia in North Herefordshire
Sophia Campbell
Tel: 07904454227
Email: wovenfarewell@gmail.com
Sophia welcomes those who may wish to help weave the coffin and donates 5% of her profits to the Woodland Trust. Accredited with CCSA for cremation, recommended by the Good Funeral Guide and the Natural Death Centre, Sophia uses all sustainable materials.
Rustling Trees Willow Coffins
Pippa Scott & Rob Ritchie
Tel: 01686 420423
Pippa has been a willow basket maker since 1987, making coffins since 2005 and a member of the Basketmakers' Association. Rob is a lifelong woodworker who makes the coffin handles and name plates which he uses hazel, blackthorn and rowan foraged from the hedgerows and woods.
A Rustling Trees willow coffin ensures dignity and respect, not only for the deceased but also for the environment.
Greenfield Coffins
High quality, fully customisable, cardboard coffins
Tel: 01440 788866
Email: sales@greenfieldcreations.co.uk
Strong, sturdy, lightweight coffins onto which any design can be printed onto. Environmentally friendlier than alternatives, and delivered throughout the United Kingdom.
Ecoffins
Tel: 01795 830688
Established in 1998, Ecoffins is a family owned business who is UK’s only World Fair Trade Organisation accredited coffin manufacturer. Being also the longest supplier of eco-friendly coffins in the UK they offer a large selection of coffins and ashes caskets which are all 100% natural and biodegradable.
Shrouds
Contrary to popular belief, in the UK, it is not a legal requirement for a coffin or casket to be used when interring a body. Instead, a shroud can be used. Shrouds are beginning to grow in popularity by environmentally conscious people looking to minimise their carbon footprint. Burial shrouds are also versatile options for the creative or eco-minded looking to think outside the box, allowing for more personalisation.
Shrouds can be purchased at an affordable cost directly from us, complete with wrap around ties, instructions and a board. The shroud can be placed on the wooden bier, so loved ones can be carried to the grave just like any normal coffin.
Shrouds can enhance the shape of a body which may be distressing for some to see, especially children. This can be easily disguised by a blanket, a flag or printed cloth which needs to be biodegradable if buried.
You may have a special cover that you would like to decorate or simply arrange some flowers, possibly from the loved one’s garden.