O'Donnell Cremations - Funerals - Celebrations is the one of five Funeral Service Companies in the state of Massachusetts approved by the Green Burial Council, a non-profit organization, to offer a green burial package. For such arrangements, formaldehyde-based embalming is prohibited, as is the use of metal or hardwood caskets.

Caskets or alternative containers used to enclose and transport your loved one are made of biodegradable materials and are available in a range of prices. Service options may be arranged within the limited time frame green burial allows. As with all of our service and merchandise offerings, detailed price information for each component is itemized on our General Price List.

Although formaldehyde-based embalming is prohibited, there are alternative embalming and preparation care options available. A traditional service can have green elements and can also contain visiting hours, traditional funeral services, or simple graveside services. Our green burial offerings can be provided within a green or conventional cemetery. Many families will have a formal or informal gathering prior to or after the green committal. This allows a time of remembrance for family and friends to honor the life of their loved one.

“Green Burial is a statement of personal values for those who seek to minimize their impact on the local and global environment. For people who are mindful of the cyclical nature of life, green burial is a spiritually fulfilling alternative to conventional burial or cremation. It is an environmentally sensitive practice: the body is returned to the earth to decompose naturally and contribute to new life.” 

There are five principals of green burial that are essential to adhere to:

1. No Embalming - With formaldehyde-based preservatives

2. Direct Earth Burial - No vaults or Outer Burial Container

3. Ecological Restoration & Conservation

4. Communal Memorialization

5. Optimize Land Use