As providers of cremation services in Ukiah, CA., we know that many people wish to have their cremains released after they pass. With more and more people moving away from being embalmed and wanting a more natural process, the idea of being released back into nature is increasing. With this increase we are also seeing the purchase of biodegradable urns rising. 

You may be wondering if you need a biodegradable urn for your loved one’s cremains. This can depend. What it will mostly depend on is where and how your loved one’s cremains will be released. Let’s look at these urns a little more in detail and when they should, and shouldn’t, be used. 

What is a Biodegradable Urn? 

A biodegradable urn is a vessel to place your loved one’s cremains. This urn is different and unique in that it is made to break down over time and completely dissolve which leaves a very small or no carbon footprint. This can be very attractive to those who are environmentally friendly and can also be required to be used in certain situations. 

These urns can be constructed from materials like paper, which is very delicate, to bamboo which is much more durable. These urns, depending on the material, are made to break down within minutes to months, even years. With biodegradable urns being so popular there are many various styles and designs to choose from. 

When Should a Biodegradable Urn Be Used? 

So when should a biodegradable urn be considered? Really, whenever it is interacting with the environment in a way that it needs to break down. In some cases, such as when ashes are sent out to sea, a biodegradable urn is required by law and no other urns are allowed. 

Other situations when to use a biodegradable urn include times when the family would like to bury the ashes in a plot as with a ground burial. This could be in a cemetery or on family or other permitted land. Also these urns are needed when the family would like to plant a tree and use the ashes. 

When a Biodegradable Urn Should Not Be Used? 

Since these urns are designed to break down over time, they are not suitable for certain circumstances. For instance, you would not want to use a biodegradable urn if you were placing it in a columbarium nice or a family home as you want those urns to stand up to the test of time. In those cases, a traditional urn made from materials such as metal, glass, or wood would more appropriate. 

Where Do Your Buy a Biodegradable Urn? 

Luckily these urns are very common and popular and as such can be found to purchase very easily as most urn providers offer a biodegradable option. If not, a simple search online can yield several options of companies that have a variety of options available. 

Final Thoughts 

With more people moving toward being environmentally friendly and “going green”, cremation services in Ukiah, CA. are increasing. Due to this the popularity of biodegradable urns is also increasing. These urns make it easy for families to honor the last wishes of their loved one by having a vessel for their cremains that will break down over time and not hurt the environment it is placed in.