It's not something many of us like to think about, but it is a fact of life. Death is an inevitable part of living and something that we should each prepare for in advance. For those of us who care about our carbon footprints, how we care for our remains is important. There is a large misconception that cremation is the greener choice. However, this is simply not true. A large majority of bodies are still embalmed (due to strict infection control guidelines) before being cremated, so cremation does not prevent formaldehyde from entering the environment. Secondly, mercury in fillings is super-heated and the toxic fumes from that process are emitted directly into the atmosphere. Since in most states, there are still no regulations regarding these emissions, it is sadly a very large source of air pollution. So really, the greener choice is burial. If you choose to be buried, here are a few things to consider: 1. Consider purchasing an eco-friendly casket. These are made from natural, untreated wood. They may not look as pretty, but they will be a lot friendlier to the environment. Ornate coffins contain metals, varnishes and pressurized woods that all leach toxic chemicals into the environment. A great source to look into is www.ecopod.co.uk This company makes decorative coffins out of recycled paper! 2. Look into being buried in a nature preserve instead of a cemetery. These are wild places protected by law that provide sanctuary for wildlife. They are unregulated for burials however, and are not maintained so careful consideration is necessary before making your choice. 3. If you choose cremation, consider what you will do with the remains afterward. If you are spreading the ashes somewhere, consider what may happen in the future. That beautiful open field you pick may become a strip mall in the future, so choose your site carefully. 4. At Sea burials are becoming popular as well. You can be buried at sea without being cremated, however the burial must take place no closer than three miles off shore and the water must be at least 600 feet deep. Cremated remains can be buried in shallow water, but still must not be any close than three miles off shore. 5. Last but not least, consider funeral arrangements. Make it a point to ask loved ones not to leave plastic flowers or foliage at your grave site as these only add to pollution and can harm local wildlife such as deer who might mistake them for edible plants. Consider instead, asking loved ones to donate the money they would have spent on flowers to a nature preserve or environmental agency such as Green Peace or the Sierra Club.