While it’s not something we generally talk about out loud, many of us hope to leave behind more than just memories after death. We want to be remembered – not just for what we did, but for who we were and how we made others feel. Whether through the life lessons we’ve shared or the heirlooms we’ve passed down to new generations, the idea of leaving a legacy means our story will live on in the hearts and minds of our loved ones.

You might be wondering how you can create a legacy that lives on long after you’ve gone. From choosing your final resting place to contributing to your community, this blog explores the steps you can take to create a lasting legacy that continues long after death.

Document your life’s story

Whether through a memoir, diary or even video recordings, documenting your life’s journey can inspire your loved ones and future generations – including even family members you won’t meet. By sharing your triumphs, challenges and the lessons you learned along the way, you not only keep your memory alive once you’ve gone, but you can also help others understand their place in your family’s history. Your story becomes a bridge between the past and the future, offering both comfort to those you leave behind and a connection between you and those who come long after you.  

Pass heirlooms down to your loved ones

Passing down heirlooms is a lovely way to preserve your legacy and keep your memory alive – especially if your loved ones had a particular fondness for some of your cherished belongings. Whether it’s a piece of jewellery, a treasured ornament collection, photographs, videos, recipes or a handwritten letter, the sentimental value of your heirlooms means these items become reminders of who you were and the things you loved when you were alive. They can also be passed on through the generations, connecting you to your family long after you’re gone.

Contribute to your community

Having a positive impact within your community can create a legacy that lasts for years after your death. No matter how big or small, things like volunteering, mentoring people who need guidance or supporting local causes ensure your name is associated with positive progress within your local area. Don’t forget to talk to your loved ones about all the good things you’ve done so they’re aware of your impact within the community. After all, they’re bound to want to shout about your achievements to anyone who’ll listen.

Pre-plan your funeral

Part of creating a legacy that lives on after you’ve gone is choosing how – and where – you’d like to be remembered. End-of-life planning helps ease the financial burden on your family and also allows you to get the funeral you want. It might feel strange to think about pre-planning your own send-off, but there are several benefits if you’d like to have control over the final part of your life. Read our guide to pre-planning a funeral to find out more. 

Choose your final resting place

Considering how you’d like to be remembered helps create a long-lasting legacy. Choosing your final resting place ahead of time comes with many benefits – for example, you can find a resting place that reflects who you are and serves as a meaningful tribute to your life, values and the memories you’ve shared with loved ones.

By choosing a GreenAcres Living Memorial Park, you’ll have comfort in knowing that your final resting place will be in the beauty of nature where your loved ones will want to visit time after time. You have the choice of peaceful woodlands, stunning wildflower meadows and relaxing, well-cared-for parkland. We’ve created different Park Experiences to give you more choice when looking for a memorial that serves as a special legacy for years to come.

Find out more about our five distinctive Park Experiences.

Final Resting Place

Funerals are deeply personal, emotional ceremonies to honour the life and memory of a loved one. As part of these ceremonies, flowers have traditionally been used to express love, respect, and sympathy. However, in recent years, concerns about the environmental impact of traditional funeral flower arrangements have emerged. Many of these designs, though beautiful, are unsustainable, often constructed with single-use plastic elements such as floral foam, ribbons made from synthetic materials and plastic tape which can contribute to plastic pollution and landfill waste.

In response to these concerns, a growing number of eco-conscious florists are offering sustainable alternatives to traditional funeral flowers. These eco-friendly flower arrangements not only minimise environmental impact but also reflect the beauty and purity of nature, which can add an extra layer of meaning to the tribute for those seeking a more natural ceremony for their loved ones.


Sophie Newman Floristry


Why Choose Eco-Friendly Funeral Flowers?

It’s estimated that over 14,670 cubic meters of floral foam and single-use plastic are sent to UK landfills every year from crematoriums alone – that’s the equivalent of six Olympic-sized swimming pools! This statistic highlights the staggering waste generated by traditional funeral practices. Many florists still use floral foam – a type of plastic that crumbles over time and releases harmful microplastics into the environment. Funeral flower arrangements created with these materials not only contribute to landfill waste but also have the potential to leach harmful chemicals into the soil and groundwater.

Plastic floral foam has been the mainstay of funeral floristry since it was invented in the 1950s. It sits at the heart of most of the letters, shapes and 3D tributes which you may see travelling by in hearses, massed in the viewing areas of crematoriums, or laid on graves in all parts of the UK.

Given what we now know about the negative impact of plastic on the environment, many families are opting for sustainable alternatives. Eco-friendly funeral flowers are made without floral foam or plastic materials and use seasonal, locally sourced flowers to reduce the carbon footprint. Instead of plastic supports, florists may use biodegradable materials like moss or bamboo to structure the arrangements.

Sustainable Funeral Flower Alternatives

There are several ways to create meaningful and sustainable funeral flower arrangements that honour the memory of a loved one while protecting the environment:

  1. Hand-Tied Sheaves
    A hand-tied sheaf is a popular eco-friendly alternative to traditional casket sprays. These arrangements consist of a flat-backed bouquet with open-cut stems tied together with natural fibres, such as cotton or jute. The absence of floral foam or plastic means the entire arrangement can be buried with the casket or returned to nature without leaving any waste behind. When created with local, seasonal flowers, the carbon footprint is significantly reduced.

    Helen Sheard Floral Designs
  2. Foam-Free Wreaths
    Wreaths are a common choice for funerals, but traditional wreaths are often made with floral foam rings or polystyrene bases. Eco-friendly alternatives involve creating wreaths with natural plant materials, like willow or grapevine, to form the structure. These wreaths are fully biodegradable and can be left at the burial site without concern for lingering pollution.

    Helen Sheard Floral Designs
  3. Compostable Casket Tributes
    For those looking for a more elaborate arrangement to sit atop a casket, many florists now offer fully compostable designs. These tributes use natural materials, such as moss instead of floral foam to support the flowers. In some cases, florists will create reusable bases made from plant fibres or mineral-based supports that can be reclaimed after the ceremony. This eliminates waste and ensures that no harmful materials are buried with the casket. 

    Woodchurch Cottage Flowers
  4. Seasonal and Local Blooms
    Another way to reduce the environmental impact of funeral flowers is to choose blooms that are in season and grown locally. Imported flowers require more resources for transportation and often come with a larger carbon footprint due to the energy needed for refrigeration and transit. By selecting flowers that are in season and locally sourced, you not only support local growers but also reduce the overall environmental impact.

    Woodchurch Cottage Flowers
  5. Plastic-Free Packaging and Bouquets
    If family and friends are bringing flowers to the service, they can be encouraged to avoid bouquets wrapped in plastic or tied with plastic ribbons. Instead, guests can opt for flowers wrapped in biodegradable paper or natural fabrics. Alternatively, they can contribute to a memorial charity in lieu of flowers, further reducing waste while supporting a meaningful cause.

    The Shropshire Flower Company

How to Find Eco-Friendly Florists

In the UK, Farewell Flowers is a directory that helps families find local florists who specialise in creating plastic-free and environmentally conscious funeral flower arrangements. These florists are committed to focusing on sustainable materials and creating unique, meaningful arrangements that reflect the personality and interests of the person being remembered.

Choosing a Green Burial Site

For those organising a green funeral or burial, it’s important to check with the site about any rules they may have regarding flower displays. Some green burial sites have strict guidelines to ensure that only native plants are left on the land and that no plastic or non-biodegradable materials are used. Florists who specialise in eco-friendly funeral flowers are typically well-versed in these regulations and can create designs that adhere to the site’s guidelines.

Additionally, you can consider a Living Memorial, Living Memorials are increasingly popular for those seeking an eco-friendly way to honour loved ones.

These memorials offer a lasting tribute that grow and flourish, symbolising their life, legacy and lasting imprint on the natural world. One of the many options we have in our GreenAcres Parks is a Living Memorial Tree. Whether used for burials, a final resting place for ashes, or a special dedication; a Living Memorial Tree offers a sustainable alternative to traditional memorials, aligning personal remembrance with ecological responsibility.

By planting a Living Memorial Tree, you create a personal and lasting space for reflection while contributing positively to the environment. These trees provide habitat for wildlife, enhance air quality, contribute positively to the ecosystem and help sequester carbon.

See more on eco-burials here

Final Thoughts

Eco-friendly funeral flowers offer a way to honour loved ones in a meaningful, thoughtful manner while protecting the environment. Whether you choose hand-tied sheaves, compostable casket tributes, or wreaths made from natural materials, these arrangements ensure that your final farewell doesn’t come at the cost of our planet’s health. By working with sustainable florists and considering green alternatives, we can all play a part in reducing waste and preserving the beauty of nature, even in our moments of deepest grief.

If you’re planning a funeral and would like to make eco-conscious decisions, Farewell Flowers Directory is a wonderful resource to find UK florists dedicated to providing plastic-free and sustainable options. Let’s make the final tribute to our loved ones as gentle on the Earth as their memory is on our hearts.

Whatever your wishes we are here to work with you and your Funeral Director to give you a personalised service and the support you need. Get in touch with us to find out more.

Image Credits: the florists listed below kindly allowed us to share their photos, they are all registered with the Farewell Flowers Directory. Click the links below to visit their websites.
Helen Sheard Floral Designs
Woodchurch Cottage Flowers
The Shropshire Flower Company
Sophie Newman Floristry 

Chiltern Park, Colney Park and Epping Park

There may also be a rare occurrence where the Park has to close due to adverse weather conditions to keep our visitors safe, please check our Facebook and Instagram stories and contact the Park before travelling on:

Chiltern Park 01494 872158
Colney Park 01603 811556
Epping Park 01992 523863

Dates Office Opening Hours Park Visiting Hours
Christmas Eve 2024 9.00am – 2.30pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closed 9.00am – 4.00pm
27 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
28 December 2024 9.00am – 4.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
29 December 2024 Closed 9.00am – 4.00pm
30 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
New Years Eve 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
New Years Day 2025 9.00am – 1.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
2nd January 2025 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
Last entry into the Park is 30 minutes prior to the gates closing.

Heatherley Park

There may also be a rare occurrence where the Park has to close due to adverse weather conditions to keep our visitors safe, please check our Facebook and Instagram stories and contact the Park before travelling on: Heatherley Park 01428 715915

Please note: Out of hours pedestrian access to Heatherley Park available via a kissing gate. There is limited parking spaces in front of the main gates which are locked outside of office opening hours.

Dates Office Opening Hours
Christmas Eve 2024 9.00am – 2.30pm
Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closed
27 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm
28 December 2024 9.00am – 3.00pm
29 December 2024 Closed
30 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm
New Years Eve 9.00am – 5.00pm
New Years Day 2025 9.00am – 1.00pm
2nd January 2025 9.00am – 5.00pm

Kemnal Park

There may also be a rare occurrence where the Park has to close due to adverse weather conditions to keep our visitors safe, please check our Facebook and Instagram stories and contact the Park before travelling on: Kemnal Park 020 8300 9790

Dates Office Opening Hours Park Visiting Hours
Christmas Eve 2024 9.00am – 2.30pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closed 9.00am – 4.00pm
27 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
28 December 2024 9.00am – 1.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
29 December 2024 Closed 9.00am – 4.00pm
30 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
New Years Eve 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
New Years Day 2025 9.00am – 1.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
2nd January 2025 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
Last entry into the Park is 30 minutes prior to the gates closing.

Rainford Park

There may also be a rare occurrence where the Park has to close due to adverse weather conditions to keep our visitors safe, please check our Facebook and Instagram stories and contact the Park before travelling on: Rainford Park 01744 649189

Dates Office Opening Hours Park Visiting Hours
Christmas Eve 2024 9.00am – 2.30pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closed 10.00am – 4.00pm
27 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
28 December 2024 10.00am – 4.00pm 10.00am – 4.00pm
29 December 2024 Closed 10.00am – 4.00pm
30 December 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
New Years Eve 2024 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
New Years Day 2025 9.00am – 1.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
2nd January 2025 9.00am – 5.00pm 9.00am – 4.00pm
Last entry into the Park is 30 minutes prior to the gates closing.

Grief is one of the most challenging emotional experiences we can face. Whether it comes from the loss of a loved one, a life change, or a personal setback, grief has a way of isolating us, making it difficult to see a path forward. In these moments, nature can be an unexpected yet powerful ally in our healing journey. The natural world offers a space for reflection, comfort, and renewal – helping us process our grief in gentle and meaningful ways.

1. A Place for Quiet Reflection

In nature, we find a sanctuary from the noise of everyday life. Whether it’s walking through woodland, sitting by the sea, or simply spending time in a garden, nature provides a quiet space for reflection. In moments of grief, this silence can be comforting, allowing us to slow down, sit with our feelings, and gradually begin to understand them.

2. Nature’s Endurance

The changing seasons, the life cycle of plants, and the rhythm of the natural world offer us reminders of the cyclical nature of life and death. Trees shed their leaves in autumn only to bloom again in spring. Flowers wither but leave seeds for new growth. By observing these natural processes, we are reminded that while loss is part of life, renewal is also possible. It doesn’t erase the pain, but it offers hope for the future.

3. Physical Movement to Process Emotions

Engaging with nature often involves movement – whether it’s walking, running, or simply tending to a garden. Physical activity is a powerful tool for processing grief, as it helps release stress and can create a sense of progress when everything else feels stagnant. The act of walking outdoors, surrounded by trees, plants, and wildlife, can provide a sense of grounding and connection that is soothing in times of emotional upheaval.

4. Connection to Something Greater

In moments of deep sorrow, it’s easy to feel small and alone in the vastness of grief. Nature has a way of reminding us that we are part of something larger, something enduring. The sky above, the trees around, and the earth below can help us feel connected to the world, to others, and to the idea that life continues, even in the face of loss. This connection can bring comfort, especially when words or support from others feel insufficient.

5. Creating Living Memorials

One beautiful way to honour a loved one and find solace is through creating a living memorial. Whether it’s planting a tree, creating a garden, or scattering ashes in a special outdoor space, nature can provide a lasting tribute that grows and changes over time. These living memorials offer a place of peace where you can visit, reflect, and feel close to the one you’ve lost, while also contributing to the beauty and life of the natural world.

6. The Healing Power of Routine in Nature

Grief can often leave us feeling disoriented, as though life has lost its structure. Returning to nature -whether through daily walks, gardening, or simply spending time outside – can help reestablish a sense of routine. The sun rises and sets, plants grow and bloom, animals follow their instincts – these patterns remind us that life continues, providing a subtle but important form of healing.

7. Mindfulness and Presence in the Outdoors

Mindfulness, or the practice of being present in the moment, can be a useful tool in managing grief. Nature invites mindfulness naturally – whether it’s noticing the way sunlight filters through leaves, the sound of birdsong, or the feeling of grass underfoot. By focusing on these sensory experiences, we can find moments of peace, however brief, that give us a break from the overwhelming weight of our emotions.

Final Thoughts

While grief is deeply personal and everyone processes it differently, nature offers a timeless source of solace and healing. Whether it’s through the quiet reflection it provides, the reminders of life’s cycles, or the comfort of being part of something greater, nature can be a powerful companion in our journey through loss. In these times, spending time outdoors may not erase the pain, but it can help us find moments of peace, healing, and ultimately, renewal.

At GreenAcres, you’re never alone. You can find a range of helpful blog posts to guide you through your grief over on our website.

Our monthly bereavement cafés are held within the beautiful landscapes of our Parks where you can feel the uplifting and healing power of nature around you. You will find a kind, supportive space with understanding from others who are also living life after loss. We provide additional resources including a collection of grief books and signposting information to other bereavement organisations. Find out more here.

Event Overview

Cafés are held within the beautiful landscapes of our Parks where you can feel the uplifting and healing power of nature around you.

Our Bereavement Cafés are welcoming spaces where the topic of death is not a taboo, but an open and honest conversation. Here, you can say your loved one’s name, share your memories, and talk about your grief with others who truly understand.

For those not ready to share, Bereavement Cafés offer the opportunity to simply listen, to be in the presence of others navigating loss, and to find comfort in knowing you’re not alone.

These gatherings are not about fixing grief or rushing healing – they’re about creating a safe, compassionate community where every experience of loss is respected, and every story matters. Whether you come to talk, listen, or just be, you are warmly welcomed.

All are welcome. Free coffee and cake!

Event Overview

Cafés are held within the beautiful landscapes of our Parks where you can feel the uplifting and healing power of nature around you.

Our Bereavement Cafés are welcoming spaces where the topic of death is not a taboo, but an open and honest conversation. Here, you can say your loved one’s name, share your memories, and talk about your grief with others who truly understand.

For those not ready to share, Bereavement Cafés offer the opportunity to simply listen, to be in the presence of others navigating loss, and to find comfort in knowing you’re not alone.

These gatherings are not about fixing grief or rushing healing – they’re about creating a safe, compassionate community where every experience of loss is respected, and every story matters. Whether you come to talk, listen, or just be, you are warmly welcomed.

All are welcome. Free coffee and cake!