I’ve spoken a great deal in the past about coffins. And I make it my mission to encourage all of us to plan ahead, document what matters to us and discuss our wishes and their implications with those left behind to administer our estates , organise our funerals and mourn us.
In this post I’m expanding your thoughts regarding traditional coffins, looking specifically at more sustainable options. We’re rethinking funerals. Lets talk about coffins. you might want to read more here about eco burials
The Hidden Impact of Traditional Coffins
Coffins can cost a fortune, but they don’t have to cost the earth! Not only do the prices vary hugely. A traditional wooden coffin in the UK can cost anything from £350 to £10000! depending on the choice of wood, who you buy it from, what furniture is added.
You may think of wood as being environmentally sound, a natural product. But think, where was the wood grown and imported from, how long did it take to grow? How long will that tree take to replace? What is the wood treated with? Lined with? furnished with? Not only are they costing you £££s, they’re costing the earth too. In fact, most traditional wooden coffins are made from veneered chipboard, held together with glues, varnishes and metal fittings. They look polished, but they’re not environmentally friendly, and they don’t break down naturally.
Sustainable Coffins & Shrouds: Returning to the Earth with Care
Wicker, Willow
Willow coffins are one of the most popular eco‑friendly choices. They range in price, typically £500-£1000 and are hand‑woven by skilled craftspeople, they feel warm, natural and deeply human. They are not only available in their natural colour, but can be dyed using natural colourings to create vibrant, vivid shades too. Willow coffins biodegrade gently and can be personalised with flowers, greenery or ribbons woven into the structure. There are even craftspeople who invite you to get involved in the weaving of your loved ones (or your own) final resting place.
Cardboard
Cardboard coffins are often misunderstood. People hold the view that they look “cheap” and that they might be flimsy. This is not true. They look natural (if you want) but they can also be beautifully printed. Personally I love that they can be left plain for families to decorate with messages, drawings, photos or pressed flowers. They’re also surprisingly sturdy. In terms of cost, they start at around £200. Typically c£200-£700 and they’re one of the lowest‑impact options available and invite creativity and connection.
Mushroom
I’ve been so excited about the arrival of these. A company called Loop Biotech found a way to create a coffin (they call The Cocoon), grown in 7 days (!) from mycelium root and upcycled hemp fibre. Typically lined with moss. Not only are they sustainable and biodegradable, they actually enrich the soil, increasing biodiversity and feeding the earth. They cost c £1500
Wool
Again, surprisingly strong. There is a fabulous company called The Woollen Cwtch Company that uses locally coursed British wools. I’m very excited that these include my local Welsh mountains of the Epynt. Can you imagine laying your loved one to rest in a warm natural fibre. C£850
Bamboo, Seagrass & Banana Leaf
These days there are all sorts of materials in nature that are being used for coffins. Materials that create soft, tactile coffins that are strong, sustainable and elegant — perfect for someone who valued simplicity or the natural world. Currently these range from c£450-£1500
Wooden
Still prefer a traditional wooden coffin? There are suppliers who use sustainably sourced wood. But think about how it is build too. A neighbour of mine has been planning ahead. Having chosen a natural burial ground, he decided to hand build his own coffin, using locally grown wood, planed but not varnished and held together with dovetail joints. No requirement for glue and nails. He chose hemp handles and natural fibres for the lining. Its in his garage for when the time arises. And his family know about it too.
If you don’t fancy DIY, check out Ecological Coffins.
Shrouds: A Return to Ancient Simplicity
Shrouds are one of the oldest and most natural ways to be laid to rest. To put it simply, it is any piece of fabric used to wrap a body.
Made from wool, cotton, linen or felt, they wrap the body gently, without the need for a coffin — though some natural burial grounds require a simple board beneath for support..
You can even make your own. There are lots of helpful guides on line. You need to think about the type of material, choose a natural one the degrades quickly. Also the size, at least 7ftx7ft (c2.5m square). Also consider how it is tied and supported. Most importantly, don’t use my instructions, seek out a proper guide!!!
Shrouds feel intimate, soft and deeply personal. For some families, they bring a sense of peace that a coffin never could.
Personalising a Sustainable Farewell
What I love most about eco‑friendly coffins and shrouds is how personal they can be.
- A willow coffin can be woven with flowers from the garden.
- A wool shroud can be stitched with a favourite colour or pattern.
- A cardboard coffin can become a canvas for love — covered in messages, handprints or memories.
These choices invite participation. They invite creativity. They invite connection.
They remind us that funerals don’t have to be cold or clinical. They can be warm, natural and reflective of the person we’re saying goodbye to.
Why These Choices Matter
Choosing a sustainable coffin or shroud isn’t just about the environment — though that’s important.
It’s also about intention.
About slowing down.
About choosing something that feels right, rather than something that simply ticks a box.
When we return to the earth in a way that honours both our values and the world we leave behind, it can bring a quiet comfort to those who remain.
And that, ultimately, is what these gentle conversations are all about:
finding the choices that feel true, thoughtful and deeply human.
I
