How do funeral practices impact local and global communities, with particular attention to the intersection of environmental issues (cremation versus burial) and cultural differences (Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Hindu, African American practices)

Question

Bruce Burke

Social Studies

5 December, 11:16

How do funeral practices impact local and global communities, with particular attention to the intersection of environmental issues (cremation versus burial) and cultural differences (Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Hindu, African American practices)

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Joselyn Hickman · Answer 1

Each after-death action comes with its own set of environmental impacts, from embalming chemicals that leach into groundwater to transportation emissions. Many cremation facilities lack modern filtration systems and spew carbon dioxide and mercury into the atmosphere. Cemeteries themselves carry an environmental cost: Many depend on fertilizers and large amounts of water to maintain that clipped, mowed look.

Explanation:

You might be surprised at how much environmental damage a person can do after they're dead

Burial leaves a small but significant footprint on the natural environment. Consider the various steps - embalming the corpse, sturdy coffin (possibly lacquered), tombstone and manicured grave site. About 800,000 tons of formaldehyde-based embalming fluid is buried annually in US graveyards.