Solutions

The ashes from a non-embalmed cremation are mixed into concrete "reef balls" and are placed in the oceans to create artificial reefs in effort to rebuild the dying coral reefs. 

Benefit: Supports marine ecosystems

Drawback: Still requires cremation which emit greenhouse gases. 

A body is buried without the use of embalming fluids, wrapped and placed in biodegradable materials. 

Benefit: Very eco-friendly as the bodies returns nutrients like carbon to the earth without pollution side effects. 

Drawback: Limited avalibility as in some areas of western countries, it is law to embalm bodies. 

This is a common Tibetan Buddhist practice where a body, untouched by chemicals, is left exposed on a mountain top to be eaten by vultures. This is seen as an act of generosity and returning the body to nature. 

Benefit: There is zero waste, and it aligns with spiritual beliefs. 

Drawback: May be culturally and legally restricted outside of Tibet. 

Also known as Alkaline Hydrolysis or Aquamation. A body is placed into a pressurized chamber where a mix of water, heat, and alkali (usually potassium hydroxide) breaks down the body into liquid and bone fragments. The remaining bone is dried and ground into ash, similar to traditional cremation remains. 

Benefit: Completely eco-friendly as it does not involve the use of embalming chemicals and it does not produce airborne toxins or greenhouse gases like cremation does. 

Drawback: Not yet legal or available in all states or countries due to regulatory, cultural, or religious concerns. 

A body is stored in a cold chamber to slow down decomposition before burial or cremation. 

Benefit: Non-invasive and does not require the use of embalming fluids. 

Drawback: Can only offer short-term preservation for a few days. 

A body is surrounded by dry ice before burial or cremation. 

Benefit: Eco-friendly as it is completely chemical free. 

Drawback: Requires extreme careful handling to avoid carbon dioxide building and can only last for a few days. 

A body is frozen at ultra-low temperatures. 

Benefit: Seen as an attempt to "pause" death. 

Drawback: Not scientifically or medically proven or cleared, also very costly and ethically controversial

When water and fat in a body are replaced with plastic polymers, preserving it for display at museums or to study at medical schools. 

Benefit: Permanent preservation. 

Drawback: Not suitable for any form of burial as the body will no longer decompose.