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The Ecopod: The stylish, natural and biodegradable burial option

By Katie Machol Simon on Fri, Jul 30, 2010 at 10:31 am

[image-1]You can further customize the Ecopod with screen printed images on the top of it (doves, a Celtic cross, an Aztec sun, etc.) or get get it further pimped out as the "crème de la crème" version with hand applied Dutch gold leaf and lined with feathers. This would be perfect for the green diva or eco-conscious rapper in your life.

After removing the carrying straps made of metal and bamboo, the entire coffin will biodegrade naturally over time and can be used at woodland or traditional burial sites. The versatile vessel that it is, it can also be used for cremation.

[image-2]Just in case you or your loved one are opting for cremation and are over the traditional urns that people mistake for fancy vases, the Ecopod company also makes the ARKA Acorn Urn, made from recycled paper and available in different colors. It lets people know you're eco-friendly, even in death.

The Ecopod can be purchased from The Natural Burial Company and Nigel's Eco Store (if you're in the UK).

Information and images via Ecopod and Inhabitat.

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On the cutting edge of eco-burials, the Ecopod is not only environmentally friendly, it's also very attractive — because who wants to bury their loved one in some bulky and drab traditional coffin?

The Ecopod, manufactured in Brighton, England, is handmade from recycled newspapers and hand finished with 100% mulberry pulp paper. It sports a natural calico mattress, so you or your loved one's corpse can rest in comfortable peace (until the whole coffin degrades). Being painted with non-toxic, eco-friendly paints, it is available in a variety of colors like white, indigo blue, red, and forest green.