As environmental awareness shapes our daily choices – from reusable bags to electric vehicles – many South Australians are asking a deeper question: “How can we lessen our environmental impact when we pass away?”
In Adelaide, natural burials (also known as green burials) offer a gentle, sustainable alternative to traditional burial or cremation. Here is a guide to how natural burials work and where you can find natural burial grounds in Adelaide.
Wirra Wonga at Enfield Memorial Park
What is a Natural Burial?
A natural burial aims to return a body to the earth as naturally as possible, encouraging full decomposition to support the local ecosystem and native bushland. Key elements of a green burial in Adelaide include:
- Chemical-Free Preparation: No embalming fluids or chemical preservatives are used during the body preparation process.
- Biodegradable Coffins & Shrouds: Bodies are encased in untreated pine, woven wicker, biodegradable cardboard, mushroom mycelium coffins, or simply wrapped in a 100% natural fiber shroud (such as wool, cotton, or silk with zero synthetic materials).
- Native Vegetation Markers: Instead of stone headstones or concrete monuments, graves are left unmarked or planted with native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers to create a living memorial.
- GPS Mapping: Loved ones can locate exact resting places using precise GPS coordinates provided by the cemetery.
Mushroom Coffins are a new option for Natural Burials in Australia
Natural Burial Grounds in Adelaide
Adelaide has led the way in eco-friendly burials for years, establishing dedicated conservation cemeteries set within natural Australian bushland.
Wirra Wonga at Enfield Memorial Park Established in 2007, “Wirra Wonga” (a Kaurna term meaning “Bush Grave”) was one of South Australia’s first dedicated natural burial spaces. Featuring winding dirt paths and native foliage, it provides a tranquil, self-sustaining resting place amidst local birdlife and flora.
Pilyu Yarta at Smithfield Memorial Park Introduced in 2014, “Pilyu Yarta” (meaning “Peaceful Ground”) offers a peaceful sanctuary in Adelaide’s north. Operating as a self-sustaining ecosystem, graves at Pilyu Yarta are surrounded by native trees and wild grasses, ensuring your final footprint nourishes the land.
Planning an Eco-Friendly Funeral in Adelaide
Choosing a natural burial allows you to leave a lasting environmental legacy, ensuring future generations inherit protected native bushland. Whether you are pre-planning your own farewell or arranging a service for a loved one, Sensible Funerals can tailor a natural burial package to suit your family’s wishes.
Interested in exploring natural burial options or funeral packages in Adelaide? Contact our office for more information or a chat about your eco-friendly options.
