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Cemetery offers environmentally friendly 'green' graves
Posted at: 06/21/2012 6:00 PM
| Updated at: 06/22/2012 8:00 AM
By: Subrina Dhammi
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 Photo: Duffer Kendrick/WNYT |
NISKAYUNA - There's a new trend sweeping the nation that enables people to be environmentally friendly in the after life. Natural burials, or green burials, use biodegradable materials, while keeping the land natural.
It's something Kate Downey is seriously considering.
"The more I thought about it, the more it just seemed like a more sacred experience," said Downey.
The mother of three recently met with a financial planner, and realized it may be time to start making these decisions.
"And he said I want you two to think about if something should happen to you what are the next steps," Downey said.
Now if she chooses that option Downey can consider the Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery in Niskayuna. There's a plot of land that's now a natural burial preserve, reserved for just green burials.
The land won't look like a traditional cemetery, rather more like a lush meadow. No manicured lawns. No rows of headstones. Just a small natural granite block.
Bodies can be buried in a shroud, a willow basket or a pine coffin. No metal. Embalming is optional.
"If you're living your life trying to be a good steward and being environmentally friendly you can do it in your death as well," said Maureen McGuinness of Schenectady Catholic Cemeteries.
A green burial costs $1,500. Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery will begin offering the option this September.
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