Mount Auburn Certified as Hybrid Burial Ground by Green Burial Council

May 20, 2014

On May 14, 2014, Mount Auburn Cemetery was the first cemetery in Massachusetts to be certified through the Green Burial Council as a Hybrid Burial Ground. The Green Burial Council is an independent, tax-exempt, nonprofit organization working to encourage environmentally sustainable death care and the use of burial as a new means of protecting natural areas.

In keeping with the spirit of the Cemetery’s founding in 1831 and today’s customer requests, Mount Auburn is now offering options for natural or ‘green’ burial. The Hybrid Burial Ground certification is given to cemeteries that offer the option for burial without the use of an outer burial container or vault typically constructed of concrete. Hybrid cemeteries allow for the use of alternative burial containers such as simple, pine coffins; wicker caskets; or shrouds.

Burial customs and rituals have changed over the course of Mount Auburn’s 183 years, however Mount Auburn’s significance and relevance is steadfast. As a national treasure and cultural institution, it preserves the enduring legacy of both those who are buried here and their families, and its genius loci provides a place for renewal and reflection. Mount Auburn offers exquisite service and innovative burial options throughout the historic landscape.

Learn more about natural burial options at Mount Auburn.

Join us on June 14th, 2014 for Graves in the Garden, a day of educational activities and events exploring the topic of natural burial.

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