Nature's Air Filters: The Effects of Green Burial and Trees

With each passing month, Reflection Park moves closer to the opening of its natural burial ground. We are humbled by the support and anticipation from so many who have reached out to us. We are also inspired by the possibility of Reflection Park mitigating the effects of climate change in its own small way. 

Here’s how: July is hitting the hottest single month ever recorded on Earth, possibly even surpassing temperatures not seen in over 100,000 years. This summer you have most likely also felt the impacts of the unprecedented series of Canadian wildfires causing poor air quality that have led to respiratory issues, health concerns, and disruption of outdoor activities. Trees play a remarkable role in tackling climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and sequestering it within their trunks, roots, branches, leaves, and even the surrounding soil. Did you know that a single mature tree can absorb a half metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent? Trees also release oxygen and are effective air filters for harmful pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides, ammonia and ozone that can all cause respiratory problems from repeated exposure.

Similarly, natural burial sequesters carbon in the ground where it is transformed into new life in the form of other plants, animals, bacteria, and fungi. At Reflection Park, we are grateful to be a part of the solution through cultivation of natural spaces and provision of green burial services (coming soon!) that can reduce emissions, purify the air we breathe, and preserve natural resources for generations to come.

PROGRESS UPDATE

We are continuing to move forward with construction plans. Up until very recently, we were planning on building utilities that would deliver water and electricity through conduits over a quarter of a mile into the property. This ended up being much more extensive and costly than we expected. As necessity is the mother of invention, these developments have led us to make tweaks to the plans that now include solar energy and modified water usage instead. While we might start construction a little later than expected, eliminating the extensive water and electricity lines should reduce construction time. 

We are also continuing to develop our operational plans as well as compile the necessary documentation to file for licensure from the Maryland Office of Cemetery Oversight. We recently finalized arrangements to establish the required perpetual care trust fund that will support maintenance of Reflection Park into perpetuity. One of the operational details we have been mulling over is renewable burial lots. Stay tuned for more about this in a future edition. We have also been connecting with a group of natural burial start-up operators, which has been an invaluable resource and support for us who share this journey.

We plan to keep everyone updated on our plans for opening and procedures for making arrangements through our newsletter and website. If you are not already on our mailing list, you can sign up easily on our home page.

Your Questions Answered

As interest about natural burials grows and word spreads, we continue to receive a steady stream of questions about Reflection Park. So that everyone can benefit, we’ve added those questions and answers to our newly revamped FAQs page. If you do not find an answer to your question, please email us at info@reflectionpark.org.

How can I help?

Speaking of frequently asked questions, people often ask us how they can help support Reflection Park. Your expressions of support hearten and inspire us to walk this deeply meaningful path.

We are always on the lookout for talent. At this time, we are looking for someone who can help with operations. This person is passionate about our mission, shares our vision, has the heart for working with families in distress, and possesses a strong management skill set. A bit of a unicorn, we know. This person will join forces with Nicole Sroka, our current operations manager. 

Additionally, we would like to know about local and credible providers for:

• memorial stones and engravings,

• green burial products like natural caskets and shrouds, and

• horticulture and integrated pest management expertise.

If you’re interested or if you know someone who is, please reach out to us at info@reflectionpark.org with “Opportunities” in the subject line.

Finally, another way to help is financially. Reflection Park is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity, and all donations are tax deductible. We are grateful for every dollar contributed in support of our mission to create a sacred place that celebrates the cycle of life, nature, and transformation. More information about giving can be found on our donation page.

Not on our mailing list yet? Click here to subscribe.