Carbondale considers biodegradable `natural` burials
(World News USA)

CARBONDALE, Ill. (AP) - The Carbondale City Council is considering allowing `natural` burials that involve biodegradable materials and no chemicals. The (Carbondale) Southern Illinoisan reports is discussing altering its code to allow the process at Oakland Cemetery. Southern Illinois funeral director Samuel Perry provided information from the Green Burial Council. The council sets standards for natural burials which it says `furthers legitimate environmental and societal aims.` Natural burials use no chemicals such as formaldehyde to preserve a body. Biodegradable caskets are used and placed directly in the ground with no vault. Typically such graves are not even permanently marked. ......