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Why do green burials avoid embalming fluids containing formaldehyde?

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surgeon; American Civil War — embalming An embalming surgeon at work on a soldier's body during the American Civil War.

Green burials avoid the use of embalming fluids containing formaldehyde primarily to protect the environment and human health.

The core principles of a green burial are to minimize environmental impact and allow the body to decompose naturally. When traditional embalming fluids—which typically contain toxic chemicals like formaldehyde and phenol—are used, these hazardous substances can leach from burial sites into the surrounding soil and groundwater, potentially causing long-term chemical pollution.12

Furthermore, there are significant health concerns regarding the use of these chemicals. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, and studies have linked exposure to these toxic substances to higher risks of cancer and other diseases among funeral industry workers. By eliminating these chemicals, green burials prioritize ecological sustainability and reduce the health risks associated with traditional embalming practices.132