When it comes to preplanning your funeral, deciding between burial and cremation is an intensely personal choice that can be influenced by religious, cultural, and financial factors. However, research shows that cremation is becoming the popular choice in the United States. Why are people increasingly choosing cremation instead of burial? Here, Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska, WI, sheds light on some of the reasons many people decide to be cremated.

Why Cremation Is Becoming More Popular

Environmental Concerns

Cremation is more “green” than burial, as burials take up more real estate on the ground and require harmful chemicals for the embalming process. Though cremation is not completely without hazards for the environment, as carbon emissions can be released into the atmosphere during the process, modern technology has made it increasingly safe.

Cost

Statistics show that cremation costs an average of 40% to 50% less than burial. Why is cremation so much more affordable? Cremated remains do not require an expensive casket, and, with a cremation, you do not necessarily need a headstone or cemetery plot—expenses that are unavoidable with a burial. Additionally, with a cremation service, you can cut back on expenses like the viewing and the burial service.

Convenience

Cremation is often a more convenient choice for the family of the deceased. With a burial, family members need to travel to the cemetery to pay respects to their loved one, which can be difficult if they don’t live nearby. Cremated remains, on the other hand, are more mobile as they can be stored in an urn.

If you are struggling to decide between a cremation and burial, a compassionate staff member at Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska would love to offer you guidance. Call them today at (608) 783-9777, or visit their website to view more information about cremation.