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As people become more aware of their environmental footprint, it was only a matter of time before attention turned to burials.
Former hospice nurse and Kaipara resident Karen Williamson describes herself as a death care navigator and natural dyer, who has launched a business offering people a greener death.
Her business, Ake Ake Shrouds, produces artisan funeral shrouds – a unique piece of functional artwork, much like a soft coffin, she says.
“Each shroud is individually hand-crafted from natural textiles, elevated with a beautiful aesthetic, gentle colours and unique plant prints. There are ready-made shrouds, but people can commission personalised shrouds using plants that have special meaning for them,” Karen says.
“Also known as winding cloth, wade, burial blanket, burial cloth, grave clothes or soft coffin, a shroud is simply a piece, or pieces, of fabric used to wrap a person after death to cover, protect and provide dignity as they move through to burial or cremation.”
The practise of using a funeral shroud is thousands of years old. The earliest evidence dates back to ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and other early civilisations. During the Middle Ages in Europe, funeral shrouds were commonly used, especially for anyone who could not afford an elaborate coffin. By the 17th and 18th centuries, laws in England required woollen shrouds to promote the domestic wool trade.
While modern funerary practices have seen an increase in casket burials and cremations, the use of shrouds persists in many cultural and religious communities.
Many eco-conscious individuals are now opting for biodegradable shrouds made from organic cotton, hemp or linen to reduce environmental impact. Additionally, natural burial grounds, which are dedicated to being 100 per cent natural, do not allow embalming and require everything to be compostable. Shrouds are not necessarily encouraged instead of coffins, but they fit the criteria for natural burial grounds.
Funeral shrouds symbolise a return to simplicity, honouring traditions that span millennia, while aligning with modern values of sustainability. Their use is likely to increase, bridging ancient customs with contemporary concerns for the planet.
Karen says her shrouds are more than just a product.
“I offer to help people navigate their way through the funeral planning process with confidence and sovereignty. My background in palliative care ensures confidentiality and compassion as I walk alongside them on this journey.
“My intention for Ake Ake Shrouds is to create an elegant and unique option that has low impact on Mother Earth, inspires the choice for a natural funeral, and empowers families to participate in the ritual of death care with autonomy and confidence.”
www.akeakeshrouds.co.nz
hello@akeakeshrouds.co.nz • 027 636 5610
