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Apr 03, 2025 - 08:08 AM
A Greener Way to Say Goodbye
At MainelyUrns.com, we’re proud to offer a wide variety of biodegradable cremation urns that are not only beautiful and meaningful—but also kind to the Earth. Whether you’re planning a land burial, water burial, or scattering ceremony, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know when considering a biodegradable urn.
What Is a Biodegradable Urn?
Biodegradable urns are specially crafted cremation urns made from natural, decomposable materials that break down over time after burial—leaving no lasting impact on the environment.
Unlike traditional urns, which can be made of metal or ceramic and last indefinitely, biodegradable urns are designed to return gently to the earth.
👉 Important Note: Not all cremation urns are biodegradable. Be sure to look for urns specifically labeled and designed for this purpose.
What Does “Biodegradable” Really Mean?
“Biodegradable” refers to materials that naturally decompose through biological processes—without releasing toxins into the environment.
However, it’s worth noting:
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Biodegradable does not mean it will break down anywhere, anytime.
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Decomposition depends on the environment—moisture, heat, microbes, and more.
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Materials like paper can break down in 2–6 weeks, while salt-based urns dissolve in hours when placed in water.
What Are Biodegradable Urns Made Of?
Biodegradable urns at MainelyUrns.com are crafted from a variety of earth-friendly materials:
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🌾 Paper and Cardboard – Breaks down quickly in moist soil
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🌊 Salt and Sand – Dissolves in water (perfect for water burials)
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🌿 Bamboo and Wood Fibers – Sustainable and slow to break down until buried
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🧂 Himalayan Salt – Naturally occurring and visually stunning
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🌱 Plant-Based Bioplastics – Made from cornstarch or other renewable sources
Each urn is designed with care, often including a biodegradable bag for the ashes to ensure every component meets green burial standards.
Types of Biodegradable Urns
💧 Water Burial Urns
These urns dissolve in water within minutes or hours. Ideal for ocean, lake, or river ceremonies.
Example: Peaceful Petal® Flower Water Urn – gently sinks and dissolves in a serene display.
🌱 Land Burial Urns
Designed for burial in soil. They hold their form until buried, then begin to decompose naturally.
Example: Original Green Burial Basket – made of plant fibers with a biodegradable ash bag.
🌸 Scattering Urns
Made for ash dispersal in nature. Lightweight, portable, and crafted from biodegradable materials.
Example: Eco Scattering Tube – perfect for a controlled, respectful scattering ceremony.
🌳 Living Memorial Urns
Includes seed pods or tree kits, allowing families to grow a living tribute from their loved one’s ashes.
Example: Memorial Tree Urn – create a lasting legacy in your backyard or a favorite park.
Where Can Biodegradable Urns Be Placed?
✔ In Water – Oceans, lakes, and rivers (check local/state guidelines)
✔ In the Earth – Cemeteries, private land, memorial gardens
✔ For Scattering – Mountains, forests, beaches (with permission)
📌 Always verify local and federal regulations before planning a burial or scattering, especially on public or private property.
How Long Do Biodegradable Urns Last?
That depends on the environment:
| Urn Material | Indoors (Dry) | In Soil | In Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper | Months or longer | 2–6 weeks | Minutes to hours |
| Bamboo/Wood | Years | Weeks to years | Not for water |
| Salt | Decades | N/A | 1–6 hours |
| Sand | Years | Months | 1–3 hours |
If you plan to keep an urn at home before burial or scattering, these materials will hold up well until you're ready.
Are Cremation Ashes Biodegradable or Toxic?
No—cremated ashes (which are actually ground bone fragments, not "ash") are non-toxic and inert. They’re made of calcium phosphate, the same mineral found in bones and teeth. They won’t harm the environment but won’t break down naturally either.
That’s why the focus is on the urn being biodegradable—not the ashes.
Things to Consider When Buying a Biodegradable Urn
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✅ Purpose – Land burial, water burial, scattering, or planting a tree?
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✅ Timeframe – Immediate use or long-term storage?
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✅ Size – Adult, child, or pet-sized urn?
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✅ Personal Style – Simple and natural, or something more decorative?
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✅ Compliance – Does it meet local or cemetery regulations?
🌿 Why Choose a Biodegradable Urn from MainelyUrns.com?
We’ve been helping families for over 20 years find beautiful, earth-conscious ways to remember loved ones. Our biodegradable urns are:
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✅ Tested for eco-friendliness
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✅ Suitable for land or water burial
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✅ Crafted from sustainable materials
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✅ Available in many sizes and styles
We’re here to help you find an urn that reflects your values—and honors your loved one in a way that gives back to the planet.
📞 Still Have Questions?
We’re just a call or click away.
Contact us or visit our Biodegradable Urns Collection to get started.
