What type of burial utilizes materials that are not harmful to the environment?

The correct choice is green burial, which emphasizes environmental sustainability and minimal ecological impact. This type of burial typically uses biodegradable materials for caskets and shrouds, allowing the body to decompose naturally and replenish the earth. Green burials often take place in designated natural areas and avoid the use of harmful chemicals, such as those found in traditional embalming fluids, which can contaminate soil and groundwater.

In contrast, traditional burials often involve non-biodegradable caskets, and standard embalming processes that utilize chemicals, both of which can pose environmental hazards. Cremation, while it eliminates the use of land for burial, does typically consume energy and can release carbon emissions. Understanding these distinctions highlights the importance of choosing burial methods that align with ecological principles, making green burial an increasingly popular option for environmentally conscious individuals.