The environmental impact of COL's direct cremation services

At Celebration of Life (COL), we offer direct cremation services that not only provide a simple and affordable alternative to traditional funerals but also have a positive environmental impact.

Here's how COL's approach contributes to a more sustainable end-of-life option:

COL: Reduced carbon footprint

Streamlined process

Direct cremation eliminates the need for elaborate funeral processions and services at the crematorium, which can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with traditional funerals. By streamlining the process, COL helps minimise the environmental impact of end-of-life ceremonies.

Fewer vehicular emissions

Traditional funerals often involve multiple car journeys for viewings, services, and the final procession. Our direct cremation service reduces these trips, cutting down on vehicular emissions and contributing to better air quality.

Energy efficiency

Modern cremation facilities, like those used by COL, are designed to be more energy-efficient than older models, further reducing the environmental impact of the cremation process itself.

COL: Tree planting initiative

Carbon offsetting

At COL, we go a step further in our commitment to the environment by donating to plant a tree in memory of each person we cremate. This initiative not only honours the deceased but also contributes to reforestation efforts, helping to offset carbon emissions and support biodiversity.

Long-term environmental benefits

Trees planted through this initiative will continue to absorb carbon dioxide throughout their lifetime, providing a lasting positive impact on the environment. They also contribute to soil stability, provide habitats for wildlife, and help in maintaining ecological balance.

Raising awareness

By linking tree planting with our services, we hope to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourages clients to think about their ecological legacy.

Biodegradable urns

Eco-friendly materials

When returning ashes to families, COL uses biodegradable scatter tubes unless otherwise specified. These eco-friendly containers can be buried directly in the ground or used for scattering ashes, reducing the environmental impact compared to non-biodegradable urns.

Reducing landfill waste

Traditional urns made of metal or non-biodegradable materials can contribute to landfill waste. Our biodegradable options naturally decompose, leaving no lasting impact on the environment.

Promoting sustainable choices

By offering biodegradable options as the default, COL encourages families to make environmentally conscious decisions during a difficult time.

Flexible celebration options

Personalised and eco-friendly memorials

By separating the cremation from the celebration, COL allows families to choose more environmentally friendly ways to honour their loved ones.

This flexibility enables people to opt for outdoor gatherings, virtual memorials, or other eco-conscious celebration options that have a lower environmental impact than traditional funeral services.

Reducing resource consumption

Traditional funerals often involve the use of resources like cut flowers, which have a short lifespan and can have a significant environmental footprint. COL's approach allows families to choose more sustainable alternatives, such as planting perennial flowers or trees in memory of their loved ones.

Supporting local ecosystems

Families might choose to hold memorial services in natural settings, which can indirectly support local parks and conservation areas through usage fees or donations.

Talk to Celebration of Life to arrange a direct cremation

If you're considering direct cremation or have further questions about our services, please reach out. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process with care and respect. Contact us today at 0800 150 3555 or visit our website for more information.