No casket is legally required for cremation, just a simple combustible container, which is strong enough to hold the body. This could be a box of rough boards, pressboard, or heavy cardboard.
Cremation Choices
If the body is cremated:
Here are some other reasons you might choose cremation:
Cremation is traditional in your family, religious group, or geographical area
You prefer the body to be returned quickly and cleanly to the elements
Many people believe that a cremated body becomes one with nature more quickly.
You have environmental concerns
Perhaps you are worried about the use of valuable land for cemetery space, or believe it is wrong to fill the ground with materials that won't erode ... metal coffins and concrete vaults.
You want to keep the costs down
Decisions you must make if you choose cremation
If you are distributing the remains
Some jurisdictions have laws prohibiting the scattering of remains; others require a permit. Ask your funeral director.
Also, ask if there are any firms in your area that specialize in unique ways of distributing the remains, such as a plane to spread them over a mountain, or a ship to scatter them at sea.
Think of places that were especially loved by the deceased, close to home or far away. You can walk in the woods, by a favorite lake, or on the old family farm.
Be sure to ask permission if you want to use private property.
What about using the remains to create new life, by planting a tree? Some survivors choose to mix the remains with the soil in flowerbeds and rose gardens at home. Every time the roses bloom, you will be reminded of your loved one.
If you decide to do this, however, consider what will happen if, some day, you move away.
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