A Comparison Between Cremations and Burials: Which is Best for Your Loved One?

Cremations and burials have vast differences, and you may already have an idea of these differences, especially when it comes to the service itself. But there are other differences, including the cost. A cremation can be less expensive, with an average cost of around £4000, while a burial’s average cost can be around £5000. The price can also vary based on your location. But what else should you consider when you are choosing between a cremation or burial for your loved one? There are indeed a few other factors, such as the environmental implication, the memorial, and more. Here, then, is a comparison between cremations and burials: which is best for your loved one?

The costs

As already mentioned, cremation costs are less compared to burial costs, although there are other extra expenses you may have to contend with, such as the cost of the casket or coffin, the plot, the urn, the location of the service, and the cost of the actual funeral service which usually precedes the burial or cremation.

The impact on the environment

When it comes to the impact on the environment, each option will be different. The process of cremation involves the release of gasses into the air, and these gasses will not be released if you go for a burial service. But it is also wise to remember that crematoria adhere to strict standards and procedures, so the process is more environmentally-friendly.

On the other hand, chemicals made use of in the embalming process are carcinogenic and toxic, and once someone has been embalmed and buried, the chemicals may leak into the groundwater. However, embalming isn’t a burial requirement, and a body can be buried while not going through the process of embalming. If you are concerned about the impact on the environment, you can opt for an eco-friendly funeral, and you can also opt for eco-friendly caskets and coffins made from cardboard, wool, banana leaf, or bamboo. You can choose a woodland burial that has less environmental impact, and there are now around 260 ‘green’ burial areas or sites around the country.

Religious beliefs

You may also have to consider the religious beliefs of the person who has passed away, as suggested by the experienced funeral directors in Leeds at Carroll & Carroll funeral services. Different religions have different views on burial and cremation. For instance, Christian denominations have accepted the process of cremation ever since the Pope removed the ban on it in 1963. Catholics still prefer the deceased’s body to be at the Funeral Mass, which means that cremation will have to be delayed until after the ceremony.

For Hindus, cremation is a standard except for children, babies, and saints, while Muslims believe that cremation is against Islamic beliefs. For Sikhs, cremation is the preference, although burials can be accepted if the circumstance doesn't allow the cremation to be done. Buddhists accept either burial or cremation, but cremation is seen as more traditional.

A memorial for your loved one

Regardless of if you choose cremation or burial, you may want a memorial for your loved one. For burials, it is traditional to have a headstone, but more are also opting for memorial trees, benches, and statues.  With cremation, you will get your loved one's ashes back, and you can opt to scatter these in a place that's special or memorable. You can also have a plaque or memorial on a tree or have jewellery created out of the ashes.

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