To the Editor:

The more I learn about Green Burials and Green Cemeteries, the more convinced I am that this makes sense. It is much less damaging to the environment: without embalming fluids lingering in the earth, without metal caskets and concrete encasements that do not break down easily, and without fossil fuels needed for cremation.

Instead, one is laid to rest, wrapped in a cotton or other biodegradable fabric, in a simple pine or other earth-friendly container that will become part of the earth quickly. Our bodies then become a nourishing addition to the environment and, even though my soul is no longer using this body, it becomes a blessing for the rest of the living world.

I am looking forward to being at the Sr. College event with Chuck Lakin speaking on the subject of Green Burials on Oct 4 at 3 p.m. at the West Parish Congregational Church in Bethel on Church Street (next to Gould Academy.) Chuck gives an upbeat talk on this subject from many years of experience with the subject. We can learn a lot from him. Put his (free) talk on your calendar – October 4, 3 p.m.

Allidah Iles
Bethel