When making funerary arrangements, one of the biggest decisions you must make is what is done with the body after death. People make this decision based on cultural tradition, family reasons, and personal feelings, and over the years, cremation has steadily become more popular. There are several reasons why people opt to be cremated and memorialized with a monument after they pass on, and you can learn more about why below.

Why You Should Choose Cremation for Your Burial Plans

1. You Can Still Be Buried

Being cremated doesn't rule out being buried on a family plot with a headstone or grave marker. Many people have their ashes put in graveyards and memorialized with artistic representations, headstones, and monuments. Once a body is cremated, close loved ones can choose whether they want to carry out a traditional burial or keep the ashes as a memento.

2. Environmentally Friendly

Many people spend their lives trying to make more sustainable decisions. You should know that you can also be environmentally conscious after death. Traditional burials with an embalmed body and casket are not good for the environment, since the embalming chemicals are harmful to local soil and water and caskets take up a lot of land space. In contrast, cremation is constantly being developed to release fewer carbon emissions into the air, and the ashes that are produced leave little effect on the local environment.

3. Gives Family Closure

When a person has their body turned to ash, family members can choose what to do with the ashes to memorialize their loved one. Some people choose to keep them in a monumental urn, while others scatter the remains in their favorite place. Some people even re-fashion the ashes into jewelry that can be worn. Cremation gives many families the ability to find closure in the best way they find possible, making the grieving process easier.

If you're considering cremation for yourself or a loved one, make arrangements with Derrick Monument Co. This business is family-owned and operated, and residents throughout New York have relied on them for funerary needs for over 100 years. They will assist you in choosing a memorable monument to ensure the person who's passed on will never be forgotten. You can see their monument and gravestone options on their website or call (585) 768-8470 to speak with their staff.