Green Burial

Green Burial is:

A statement of personal values for those who seek to minimize their impact on the local and global environment. A unique alternative to conventional burial offering an environmentally sensitive practice where the body is buried to decompose naturally and contribute to the environment.

The body is prepared for Green Burial without embalming and buried in a biodegradable shroud, simple container or casket made from natural fibre, wicker or sustainably harvested wood. This form of burial has been practiced since the dawn of human civilization.

Pacific Coast Cremation & Green Burial is one of a select number of funeral providers who meet the criteria for providing green funeral service by the Green Burial Society of Canada; a nonprofit organization working to encourage environmentally sustainability in the field of funeral service. These offerings allow for a funeral to take place without the use of toxic or non-biodegradable materials/chemicals. Caskets and shrouds are made available to enclose and transport the dead. Body preparation suitable for a green funeral service accommodated by this funeral home consists of refrigeration, the use of topical sprays/compounds, or bathing the body with essential oils. Home wakes, public visitations, church funerals and graveside services are options that may be arranged within the time frame that a green funeral allows. Please discuss with your funeral director our supplemental price list for detailed price regarding merchandise offerings.

The Woodlands at Royal Oak

Royal Oak Burial Park is located in a Coastal Douglas Fir ecosystem, with the surrounding forest characterized by a mix of Douglas Fir, Grand Fir, Red Alder, Bigleaf Maple and Western Red Cedar. Arbutus and Garry Oak also grow where conditions permit. The Woodlands at Royal Oak complement the Burial Park’s existing forest ecosystem.

As burials occur, a selection of native trees, shrubs, perennials, groundcover and spring bulbs are planted in clusters on and around grave sites. Families can choose some of what will be planted on their gravesites by selecting from a range of approved native plants offered by the Burial Park. For some graves, a young tree may be chosen from an adjacent tree nursery and any remaining open space is restored with native grasses and wildflowers.

Over time, each of area of the Woodlands will develop into distinct “forest room,” with their own unique character, yet blending with the surrounding natural environment.