Farra is a death administration assistant for UK families. Get step-by-step guidance for registering a death, applying for probate, notifying banks, and managing bereavement admin. From essential documents to practical checklists, Farra simplifies estate paperwork and funeral-related tasks so you can focus on what matters.
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Five main types: cardboard (£200-£400, most affordable), wicker/willow (£400-£800, traditional appearance), bamboo (£500-£900, sustainable and strong), wool (£600-£1,000, British-made), and shrouds (£50-£200, most natural). All fully biodegradable, required for natural burial, accepted at most crematoria. No metal, varnish, or synthetic materials allowed. 60-70% cheaper than traditional coffins.
Biodegradable coffins are essential for green funerals and natural burials. Made from sustainable materials like cardboard, wicker, bamboo, wool, or willow, they decompose naturally without releasing harmful chemicals. This guide compares all UK biodegradable coffin options, costs, suppliers, and helps you choose the right eco-coffin for your needs.
Key points:
Most affordable and customisable option
Made from recycled or sustainable cardboard, these coffins are lightweight, environmentally friendly, and can be personalised with artwork, photos, or decorations.
Advantages
- ✓ Most affordable (£200-£400)
- ✓ Fully customisable
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Made from recycled materials
- ✓ Decomposes quickly (3-6 months)
- ✓ Widely available
Considerations
- • Simple appearance (unless decorated)
- • May not suit traditional preferences
- • Less robust than wooden coffins
- • Cannot support heavy floral displays
Traditional natural appearance
Handwoven from sustainable wicker or willow, these coffins offer a beautiful, traditional look while being completely biodegradable. Often chosen for their aesthetic appeal.
Advantages
- ✓ Beautiful natural appearance
- ✓ Traditional coffin shape
- ✓ Handcrafted quality
- ✓ Sustainable materials
- ✓ Sturdy and dignified
- ✓ Suitable for viewing
Considerations
- • More expensive (£400-£800)
- • Heavier than cardboard
- • Limited customisation
- • Longer decomposition (1-2 years)
Sustainable and strong modern option
Bamboo is one of the most sustainable materials available, growing rapidly without pesticides. Bamboo coffins are strong, attractive, and biodegradable.
Advantages
- ✓ Highly sustainable material
- ✓ Strong and durable
- ✓ Modern aesthetic appeal
- ✓ Fully biodegradable
- ✓ Lightweight yet sturdy
- ✓ Smooth finish
Considerations
- • Mid-range cost (£500-£900)
- • May be imported (check origin)
- • Less traditional appearance
- • Limited local suppliers
Unique British-made option
Made from compressed British wool, these innovative coffins are completely biodegradable and support UK farming. Unique soft appearance.
Advantages
- ✓ Unique material and appearance
- ✓ British-made supporting UK farmers
- ✓ Excellent insulation properties
- ✓ Soft, dignified look
- ✓ Fully biodegradable
- ✓ Natural lanolin scent
Considerations
- • Most expensive option (£600-£1,000)
- • Limited availability
- • Unusual appearance may not suit all
- • Fewer suppliers
The most natural and affordable option
Simple fabric wrapping made from natural cotton or linen. The most minimal and environmentally friendly choice, returning directly to the earth.
Advantages
- ✓ Most affordable (£50-£200)
- ✓ Minimal environmental impact
- ✓ Fastest decomposition
- ✓ Lightest weight
- ✓ Most natural option
- ✓ Historical precedent
Considerations
- • Very simple appearance
- • Not suitable for cremation
- • May not suit all cultural traditions
- • Requires burial board for support
- • Not all sites accept shrouds
| Material | Cost | Appearance | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardboard | £200-£400 | Simple, customisable | Budget-conscious, personalisation |
| Wicker/Willow | £400-£800 | Traditional, beautiful | Traditional preference, viewing |
| Bamboo | £500-£900 | Modern, smooth | Sustainability focus, strength |
| Wool | £600-£1,000 | Unique, soft | British-made, unique choice |
| Shroud | £50-£200 | Minimal, natural | Maximum simplicity, lowest cost |
When choosing a biodegradable coffin, look for these certifications and standards:
Choosing your biodegradable coffin
All biodegradable coffin options return to the earth naturally, but each offers different aesthetics, costs, and characteristics. Consider your budget, the burial site requirements, and what feels most appropriate for your loved one when making your choice.
For complete guidance on planning an eco-friendly funeral, see our green funeral planning guide.
How much do biodegradable coffins cost in the UK?
Biodegradable coffins cost £200-£1,000 depending on material. Cardboard coffins are most affordable (£200-£400), wicker/willow cost £400-£800, bamboo £500-£900, wool £600-£1,000, and shrouds £50-£200. This is 60-70% cheaper than traditional coffins which cost £500-£3,000.
What are biodegradable coffins made from?
Biodegradable coffins are made from natural materials: cardboard (recycled or sustainable), wicker or willow (handwoven), bamboo (sustainable fast-growing), wool (compressed British wool), or shrouds (cotton/linen fabric). All decompose naturally without releasing harmful chemicals. No metal, varnish, or synthetic materials are used.
Are biodegradable coffins accepted at crematoria?
Most UK crematoria accept biodegradable coffins, but check specific requirements beforehand. Cardboard, wicker, willow, bamboo, and wool coffins are generally accepted. Shrouds are typically only suitable for burial, not cremation. Some crematoria have restrictions on handles or linings, so always verify with your chosen crematorium.
Which biodegradable coffin is best for natural burial?
All biodegradable coffins work for natural burial, but shrouds (£50-£200) have the fastest decomposition and minimal environmental impact. Cardboard (£200-£400) offers best value with quick decomposition. Wicker/willow (£400-£800) provides traditional appearance. Choice depends on budget, aesthetics, and burial site requirements.
Where can I buy biodegradable coffins in the UK?
Purchase biodegradable coffins from specialist suppliers (Greenfield Coffins, Eco Coffins UK, Somerset Willow Company), most funeral directors (who can order or stock them), natural burial sites (some have partnerships with suppliers), or order directly online for DIY funerals. Natural Death Centre maintains a list of approved suppliers.