There are many more options than people realize now for posthumous preservation, including traditional burials, cremation, green burials, body composting, and a less popular method called alkaline hydrolysis. While the burial of a loved one is a deeply personal process, the long-standing effects of traditional burials and the resulting environmental concerns lead many to believe there should be legislation around it.

In the state of Washington, a traditional burial costs up to $7,200. Cremation is approximately $2,300, and a new method of body composting runs around $5,000. Apart from the cost difference between the various funeral methods, lack of space has become a real issue in urban areas. Many sources say the influx of bodies and the spread of cemeteries inhibit urban development. 

Additionally, the upkeep cost of the cemeteries has risen to astonishing levels, and unkempt cemeteries burden the regulatory authorities. Since any development on the premises causes uproar and protests from the deceased's families, the financial burden of cemetery maintenance cannot be ignored.

Washington has typically kept a pro-environment and pro-end-of-life care stance leading legislators and policymakers to bring diverse solutions to combat environmental concerns. White Eagle Memorial Preserve in Southern Washington has an option for those who choose a green burial as opposed to a traditional burial. Stakeholders claim that state laws that mandate body embalming and giant wood coffins do not support sustainability.

Statistics claim that in recent years, there has been a rise in residents of Washington opting for cremation, which is not expensive and is sustainable in terms of occupying physical land. However, many people question if cremation is environmentally friendly due to the production of air pollutants. 

If the emphasis on traditional burial remains the preferred choice, then cemetery spaces will become scarce in a few years. Should Washington do more, including raising costs and lowering taxes, to stray from traditional burials?