<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> <feed xml:lang="en" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:opensearch="http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearch/1.1/" xmlns:s="http://jadedpixel.com/-/spec/shopify"> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news.atom</id> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news"/> <link rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/tagged/the-living-urn.atom"/> <title>The Living Urn - News</title> <updated>2024-11-25T07:06:00-07:00</updated> <author> <name>The Living Urn</name> </author> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/cremation-continues-to-grow-in-popularity-in-the-u-s</id> <published>2024-06-06T12:38:55-06:00</published> <updated>2024-06-21T13:59:18-06:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/cremation-continues-to-grow-in-popularity-in-the-u-s"/> <title>Cremation vs Traditional Funerals in the United States</title> <author> <name>Michael Walas</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p align="justify">Recently, the landscape of end-of-life choices in the United States has seen a radical transformation. Traditional burial used to be the undisputed number one method for many Americans, thanks to long-held cultural norms. However, as societal values shift, economic pressures mount, and environmental awareness grows, more individuals and families are embracing <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/urns"><strong>cremation</strong></a> as the best way to say goodbye to their departed loved ones.</p> <div style="text-align: start;"><img style="float: none;" alt="set setting behind oak tree" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/oak_tree_at_sunset.jpg?v=1717696188"></div> <h2>Cremation Statistics in the U.S.</h2> <p>According to the National Funeral Directors Association’s (NFDA) <a href="https://nfda.org/news/statistics"><strong>2023 cremation and burial report</strong></a>, cremation has become the preferred choice over burial in the U.S. The cremation rate is projected to be 60.5%, while the burial rate is just 34.5%. Cremation has come a long way, considering the rate was only 5.69% in 1975! The rate is expected to continue its meteoric rise, with a projected rate of <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/251702/cremation-rate-in-the-united-states/"><strong>81.4%</strong></a> by 2045. </p> <h2>When Did Cremation Become Popular?</h2> <p>While cremation has been practiced for thousands of years in various cultures worldwide, its acceptance in the U.S. has been relatively recent. The first recorded cremation in the America occurred in 1876, but it remained a rare practice for many decades. The turning point for cremation came in the 1960s and 1970s, marked by social upheaval and changing attitudes towards authority and tradition. During this time, people began questioning established practices surrounding death and funerary customs. The environmental movement also started to take shape, drawing attention to the ecological impact of traditional burial methods. This growing awareness of sustainability and conservation further contributed to the acceptance of cremation. By the 1980s and 1990s, cremation had become increasingly mainstream. Advancements in cremation technology, the rise of secularism, and the desire for more personalized and cost-effective end-of-life arrangements all played a role in its growing popularity. </p> <h2>Why Does Cremation Continue to Grow in Popularity?</h2> <p>There are several reasons why cremation is growing in popularity. Here are three primary reasons: </p> <h2>Affordability</h2> <p>Traditional burials require extensive resources and services, making them much more costly than cremation. For instance, the body must be prepared for the funeral service by going through an embalming process ($845 on average), cosmetology/grooming/dressing ($295 on average), and being placed in a burial casket ($2,500 on average). The national median cost of an adult funeral with viewing and burial is approximately $9,995!<br data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1">On the other hand, cremation services don’t require the body to undergo an elaborate preparation process—unless families prefer to have a viewing before the service. In most cases, families choose to have a direct cremation. The average cost of a direct cremation in the United States is $2,185. Instead of a burial casket, families can choose from a wide range of elegant <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/keepsake-urns"><strong>cremation urns</strong></a> and <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/keepsake-urns"><strong>keepsakes</strong></a> to tastefully and affordably honor their loved ones. </p> <h2>Eco-friendly</h2> <p>As climate change threatens our existence, sustainable, environmentally friendly practices are more important than ever. Traditional burials need lots of land to contain the metal or hardwood caskets of the departed. These types of caskets do not break down easily in the ground, nor do they come from sustainable sources. Also, traditional burials use embalming fluids to preserve bodies. Embalming fluids contain several dangerous carcinogenic compounds, such as formaldehyde, methanol, and ethanol. Funeral homes across the United States use hundreds of thousands of gallons of these chemicals each year, seeping into our environment.<br data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1">With cremation, no harsh chemicals or large caskets are disrupting the land. Instead, families can memorialize their loved ones by planting a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/element-urns-collection"><strong>bio urn</strong></a> made of sustainable, eco-friendly materials. With <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/pages/tree-zip-code"><strong>The Living Urn®</strong></a>, you can plant your lost loved one’s cremains along with a special tree of your choice to grow a living memorial! This moving tribute will allow your loved one to help sustain the environment for years while bringing peace and solace to your grieving heart. </p> <h2>Flexibility</h2> <p>With traditional burials, the immediate need for funeral arrangements can put a lot of pressure on grieving families. For instance, it can be challenging to decide on the best place to lay a departed loved one to rest in such a short amount of time. Also, some family members may have a difficult time making the appropriate travel arrangements to accommodate an immediate service.<br data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1">Cremation allows families the flexibility and freedom to create a memorial service at any time. Cremated remains can be preserved in an urn of their choosing until the time feels right to celebrate the life of the departed formally. Whether the ashes remain in an <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/cremation-urns"><strong>indoor urn</strong></a> indefinitely, are lovingly committed via a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/scattering-ashes-1"><strong>scattering ceremony</strong></a>, placed in a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/products/eco-burial-urns"><strong>biodegradable urn</strong></a> for burial, or divided among family and friends in special <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/products/living-glass-touchstones"><strong>memorial keepsakes</strong></a>, there are several beautiful ways to honor a loved one. </p> <h2>Explore Cremation Urn Options from The Living Urn</h2> <p>The Living Urn® is America's first and leading bio urn and planting system designed to grow a beautiful, enduring memory tree with cremated remains. With over fifty tree and shrub types in our award-winning nursery, we can help you find the perfect tree for your region. From sustainably sourced biodegradable urns to elegant <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/jewelry-that-holds-ashes"><strong>cremation jewelry</strong></a> pieces and more, The Living Urn offers special and unique cremation urn options to help you honor your departed loved one respectfully and tastefully. Visit our <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/urns"><strong>store</strong></a> today to explore the many ways you can hold your lost loved one in eternal remembrance!</p> <p align="justify"> </p>]]> </content> </entry> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/what-is-cremation-glass-art</id> <published>2022-03-20T19:00:00-06:00</published> <updated>2023-10-02T18:37:43-06:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/what-is-cremation-glass-art"/> <title>What is Cremation Glass Art?</title> <author> <name>Michael Walas</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cremation glass art is glass art made from cremation glass. It incorporates a person or pet’s ashes from a cremation into the glass itself. Cremation glass is an excellent way to memorialize a passed loved one. Blown glass uses such a small amount of cremation ash, so it’s easy to make many different pieces for a large group of people, like family and close friends. Since cremation uses a lower temperature than that of traditional glass blowing, excess carbon is burned away from the cremation ash, leaving it a brilliant white color. This beautiful ash is artfully mixed into cremation glass. Glass blowers use the ash the same way they would use other colors or ornaments in glass; it just happens to be cremation ash. People often make memory </span><strong><a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/blogs/news/what-to-do-with-glass-keepsake-urns">glass keepsakes</a></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and also </span><strong><a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/scattering-ashes-1">scatter</a>, <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/products/eco-burial-urns">bury</a></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">, or display the rest of the ashes (you could even do all three, which is part of why so many more people are choosing cremation). In this article, we’ll be discussing different types of cremation glass art. </span></p> <h2>Glass Cremation Jewelry</h2> <p><b><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/glass_heart.jpg?v=1647628994" alt="cremation glass art"></b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Blown memory glass jewelry comes in many shapes, sizes, and styles. This glass is made with cremation ash. It is infused into the molten glass, adding brilliant white color and inner texture to the glass. This ash is used as part of the design, and to enhance other decorative elements within the glass. Memory glass can be made into any kind of jewelry. Pendants, rings, and earrings are all popular kinds of <strong><a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/pages/cremation-jewelry">cremation jewelry</a></strong>. Many of the same techniques, like infusing glass into beads, is used across jewelry types.</span></p> <h2>Cremation Glass Orbs</h2> <div id="product-component-1656254608216"></div> <script type="text/javascript">// <![CDATA[ (function () { var scriptURL = 'https://sdks.shopifycdn.com/buy-button/latest/buy-button-storefront.min.js'; if (window.ShopifyBuy) { if (window.ShopifyBuy.UI) { ShopifyBuyInit(); } else { loadScript(); } } else { loadScript(); } function loadScript() { var script = document.createElement('script'); script.async = true; script.src = scriptURL; (document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0] || document.getElementsByTagName('body')[0]).appendChild(script); script.onload = ShopifyBuyInit; } function ShopifyBuyInit() { var client = ShopifyBuy.buildClient({ domain: 'tlu22.myshopify.com', storefrontAccessToken: 'ab7941e462ba8d32f31bef54ebcb5767', }); ShopifyBuy.UI.onReady(client).then(function (ui) { ui.createComponent('product', { id: '7729918476504', node: document.getElementById('product-component-1656254608216'), moneyFormat: '%24%7B%7Bamount%7D%7D', options: { "product": { "styles": { "product": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "max-width": "calc(25% - 20px)", "margin-left": "20px", "margin-bottom": "50px" } }, "button": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px", "padding-left": "48px", "padding-right": "48px" }, "quantityInput": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px" } }, "buttonDestination": "modal", "contents": { "options": false }, "width": "580px", "text": { "button": "View product" } }, "productSet": { "styles": { "products": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "margin-left": "-20px" } } } }, "modalProduct": { "contents": { "img": false, "imgWithCarousel": true, "button": false, "buttonWithQuantity": true }, "styles": { "product": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "max-width": "100%", "margin-left": "0px", "margin-bottom": "0px" } }, "button": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px", "padding-left": "48px", "padding-right": "48px" }, "quantityInput": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px" } }, "text": { "button": "Add to cart" } }, "option": {}, "cart": { "styles": { "button": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px" } }, "text": { "total": "Subtotal", "button": "Checkout" } }, "toggle": { "styles": { "toggle": { "background-color": "#238cbb", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" } }, "count": { "font-size": "13px" } } } }, }); }); } })(); // ]]]]><![CDATA[></script> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These are one of the most popular forms of cremation glass art. The orb, or sphere, can symbolize many things. Its round, globe shape reminds us of the earth we came from and return to when we pass. Orbs can also be used to symbolize the infinite cycle of life. <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/products/living-glass-orbs"><strong>Cremation glass orbs</strong></a> are beautiful blown glass spheres with cremation ash incorporated into their designs. You can have your orb adorned with sparkly swirls of any color. Some orbs feature realistically rendered flowers, which can add to their symbolism if you choose your departed loved one’s favorite flower. Sometimes you’ll find shapes like animals or angel wings in cremation glass orbs. These are very versatile pieces and can be used as a paperweight, or in a garden, or placed by a sunny window. A cremation glass orb is also an excellent piece to add to any home altar or place of remembrance. </span></p> <h2>Cremation Glass Paperweights</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cremation glass paperweights are a wonderful way to use cremation glass and bring it into the home for daily viewing and use. Paperweights are eternally useful, and since they serve a practical purpose, it might be as if your loved one is there with you, helping you out. These are durable pieces, and if handled carefully will last for generations. Cremation glass paperweights are commonly found as orbs but also come in many different shapes and sizes. A flame shape is often seen and represents the eternal flame of the soul. Animal shapes such as sleeping cats, birds, or even turtles can be found. Heart-shaped glass paperweights often have their own category due to their popularity. Of course, the classic paperweight shape is available as a flat, colorful circle. </span></p> <h2>Cremation Glass Hearts</h2> <div id="product-component-1656254649334"></div> <script type="text/javascript">// <![CDATA[ (function () { var scriptURL = 'https://sdks.shopifycdn.com/buy-button/latest/buy-button-storefront.min.js'; if (window.ShopifyBuy) { if (window.ShopifyBuy.UI) { ShopifyBuyInit(); } else { loadScript(); } } else { loadScript(); } function loadScript() { var script = document.createElement('script'); script.async = true; script.src = scriptURL; (document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0] || document.getElementsByTagName('body')[0]).appendChild(script); script.onload = ShopifyBuyInit; } function ShopifyBuyInit() { var client = ShopifyBuy.buildClient({ domain: 'tlu22.myshopify.com', storefrontAccessToken: 'ab7941e462ba8d32f31bef54ebcb5767', }); ShopifyBuy.UI.onReady(client).then(function (ui) { ui.createComponent('product', { id: '7729917984984', node: document.getElementById('product-component-1656254649334'), moneyFormat: '%24%7B%7Bamount%7D%7D', options: { "product": { "styles": { "product": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "max-width": "calc(25% - 20px)", "margin-left": "20px", "margin-bottom": "50px" } }, "button": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px", "padding-left": "48px", "padding-right": "48px" }, "quantityInput": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px" } }, "buttonDestination": "modal", "contents": { "options": false }, "width": "580px", "text": { "button": "View product" } }, "productSet": { "styles": { "products": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "margin-left": "-20px" } } } }, "modalProduct": { "contents": { "img": false, "imgWithCarousel": true, "button": false, "buttonWithQuantity": true }, "styles": { "product": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "max-width": "100%", "margin-left": "0px", "margin-bottom": "0px" } }, "button": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px", "padding-left": "48px", "padding-right": "48px" }, "quantityInput": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px" } }, "text": { "button": "Add to cart" } }, "option": {}, "cart": { "styles": { "button": { "font-size": "13px", "padding-top": "14.5px", "padding-bottom": "14.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px" } }, "text": { "total": "Subtotal", "button": "Checkout" } }, "toggle": { "styles": { "toggle": { "background-color": "#238cbb", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" } }, "count": { "font-size": "13px" } } } }, }); }); } })(); // ]]]]><![CDATA[></script> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another popular way to bring blown memory glass into your day-to-day life is with a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/products/living-glass-hearts"><strong>cremation glass heart</strong></a>. These are some of the more popular memory glass designs, and it’s no wonder why. Hearts symbolize love, and that’s why you’re looking into cremation glass art—because of the love you have for someone who has passed. Create a visible symbol of how you hold and cherish the memory of the one who passed deep within your heart. The memory glass heart will contain a little bit of the person you loved and will allow you to see that part of them regularly. Hearts come in almost any color or color combination you can imagine. </span></p> <h2>Glass Keepsake Urn</h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the most beautiful ways to memorialize your departed loved one is to make and use a memory glass urn. Urns are a popular, yet classic way to honor someone who has died. Instead of a distant burial ground, their remains are laid to rest in the home of a family member. There they can be remembered lovingly and fondly. Many people find having display urns, with a tangible part of their loved one, to be comforting. <strong><a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/collections/keepsake-urns">Keepsake urns</a></strong> are small urns made to hold a tiny portion of the cremation ash. This way, many people can share in the comfort of having a display urn. Also, keepsake urns are easier to display than full-sized urns. With their small size, they’ll fit seamlessly into any décor. Cremation glass keepsake urns allow you to see the ash every time you look at the urn, which is an added benefit compared to a traditional urn. The ash will be decoratively worked into the glass, making it easy to see and appreciate. </span></p> <h2><strong>Other Keepsakes to Consider</strong></h2> <div id="collection-component-1648740466525"></div> <script type="text/javascript">// <![CDATA[ (function () { var scriptURL = 'https://sdks.shopifycdn.com/buy-button/latest/buy-button-storefront.min.js'; if (window.ShopifyBuy) { if (window.ShopifyBuy.UI) { ShopifyBuyInit(); } else { loadScript(); } } else { loadScript(); } function loadScript() { var script = document.createElement('script'); script.async = true; script.src = scriptURL; (document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0] || document.getElementsByTagName('body')[0]).appendChild(script); script.onload = ShopifyBuyInit; } function ShopifyBuyInit() { var client = ShopifyBuy.buildClient({ domain: 'tlu22.myshopify.com', storefrontAccessToken: 'ab7941e462ba8d32f31bef54ebcb5767', }); ShopifyBuy.UI.onReady(client).then(function (ui) { ui.createComponent('collection', { id: '385916666072', node: document.getElementById('collection-component-1648740466525'), moneyFormat: '%24%7B%7Bamount%7D%7D', options: { "product": { "styles": { "product": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "max-width": "calc(25% - 20px)", "margin-left": "20px", "margin-bottom": "50px", "width": "calc(25% - 20px)" }, "img": { "height": "calc(100% - 15px)", "position": "absolute", "left": "0", "right": "0", "top": "0" }, "imgWrapper": { "padding-top": "calc(75% + 15px)", "position": "relative", "height": "0" } }, "button": { "font-size": "17px", "padding-top": "16.5px", "padding-bottom": "16.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px" }, "quantityInput": { "font-size": "17px", "padding-top": "16.5px", "padding-bottom": "16.5px" } }, "buttonDestination": "modal", "contents": { "options": false }, "text": { "button": "View product" } }, "productSet": { "styles": { "products": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "margin-left": "-20px" } } } }, "modalProduct": { "contents": { "img": false, "imgWithCarousel": true, "button": false, "buttonWithQuantity": true }, "styles": { "product": { "@media (min-width: 601px)": { "max-width": "100%", "margin-left": "0px", "margin-bottom": "0px" } }, "button": { "font-size": "17px", "padding-top": "16.5px", "padding-bottom": "16.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px" }, "quantityInput": { "font-size": "17px", "padding-top": "16.5px", "padding-bottom": "16.5px" } }, "text": { "button": "Add to cart" } }, "option": {}, "cart": { "styles": { "button": { "font-size": "17px", "padding-top": "16.5px", "padding-bottom": "16.5px", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "background-color": "#238cbb", ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, "border-radius": "24px" } }, "text": { "total": "Subtotal", "button": "Checkout" } }, "toggle": { "styles": { "toggle": { "background-color": "#238cbb", ":hover": { "background-color": "#207ea8" }, ":focus": { "background-color": "#207ea8" } }, "count": { "font-size": "17px" } } } }, }); }); } })(); // ]]]]><![CDATA[></script>]]> </content> </entry> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/i-love-the-idea-of-the-living-urn-but-what-tree-is-right-for-me</id> <published>2017-06-17T09:35:00-06:00</published> <updated>2019-03-14T22:40:00-06:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/i-love-the-idea-of-the-living-urn-but-what-tree-is-right-for-me"/> <title>I Love The Idea of The Living Urn, But What Tree Is Right for Me?</title> <author> <name>Michael Walas</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p align="justify">Many people love the idea of The Living Urn® and thousands of families throughout the U.S. have grown a tree memorial from their special <strong>biodegradable urn</strong> and planting system containing a loved one’s ashes.</p> <p align="justify">With a growing interest in uplifting memorial options, The Living Urn’s Denver-based customer service team fields a large number of calls and e-mails every day with questions from families. One of the most common questions relates to figuring out the right tree for a family, or the person who wants to have a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/blogs/news/what-does-a-tree-memorial-growing-from-a-living-urn-and-a-loved-one-s-ashes-mean-to-you"><strong>tree memorial</strong></a>.</p> <p align="justify">When trying to decide on that perfect tree for you or your loved one, the first thing to consider is what trees grow well in the area where it’s going to be planted. With feedback from their in-house arborists, The Living Urn has developed an extensive list of recommended trees for every zip code in the U.S. – this can be viewed by simply clicking on the ‘<a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/pages/tree-zip-code">buy</a>’ button on The Living Urn’s website, and then typing in your zip code in the space provided. Alternatively, you can contact The Living Urn’s Denver-based customer service team at (800) 495-7022 or by <a href="mailto:info@thelivingurn.com">e-mail</a> to get help on finding out what trees grow well in your area. </p> <p align="justify"><img src="//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/Living_Tree_Urn_grande.jpg?v=1497713230" alt="" width="684" height="455" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p> <p align="justify">Another thing to consider is the tree itself and your or your loved one’s preference – does the tree flower, is it deciduous, is it big or small, does it grow wide or tall, what is the tree’s personality…? Yes, just like people, trees have personalities and symbolize different things. Some are open to interpretation, however, we’ve outlined a few commonly agreed upon ones below:</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Red Maple</strong>: Beauty and Strength. <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/blogs/news/red-maple-a-popular-green-burial-option">The red maple</a> shows vibrant red color in each of the four seasons. It can also adapt to a variety of soil conditions throughout the U.S. making it one of the strongest trees around!</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Eastern Red Bud</strong>: With its unique branch growth and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for somebody who’s ‘full of life’ with a great big personality.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Flowering Dogwoods</strong>: Sheer beauty. The spring flowers from dogwoods truly beautify a landscape and are a site to see!</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Southern Magnolia</strong>: With its year-round broad leaf foliage and large, creamy white flowers in the Spring, the Southern Magnolia is a beautiful tree that even smells good!</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Sugar Maple</strong>:<strong> </strong>A generous provider. The sugar maple is not only beautiful, it also provides great shade and delicious syrup! No wonder more states have adopted the Sugar Maple as their state tree than any other species!</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Weeping Willow</strong>: Peaceful and one of the most graceful trees. It is famous for its ground sweeping branches and long slender leaves. A great tree that will thrive in most Southern states!</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Northern Red Oak</strong>: Known as one of the handsomest, stateliest and cleanest trees it is a national treasure in America! It shows its brilliant colors in the Spring and Fall and is a favorite for wildlife.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Spruce</strong>:<strong> </strong>Charming and happy. One of the most popular ornamental conifers, the spruce tree is a hardy tree with great symmetry and a Christmas tree shape. The Spruce will grow and thrive in the Northern states!</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Pine</strong>: Rugged & Enduring.The Pine is a strong, fast growing tree that can withstand a variety of elements. It’s one of America’s most abundant tree species for good reason!</p> <p align="justify">Still have questions? Contact The Living Urn’s U.S. based customer service team at (800) 495-7022, ext. 0 to discuss finding a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/pages/tree-zip-code"><strong>tree burial</strong></a> that’s right for you – they’re here to help!</p>]]> </content> </entry> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/27-000-trees-are-used-each-day-just-to-make-toilet-paper</id> <published>2017-05-26T20:14:00-06:00</published> <updated>2019-02-19T06:49:47-07:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/27-000-trees-are-used-each-day-just-to-make-toilet-paper"/> <title>27,000 Trees Are Consumed Every Day Just to Make Toilet Paper</title> <author> <name>Michael Walas</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p align="justify">Trees are a precious resource. They provide us with significant benefits – help clean the air; provide us with oxygen; provide shade; prevent soil erosion; provide wind breaks; help clean the groundwater; provide wildlife with food and shelter; and make the world a much more beautiful place to live.</p> <p align="justify">However, with the destruction of the rain forest, and other manmade deforestation efforts, coupled with insect destruction present in many of our forests and the large forest fires experienced over the past few decades, the tree population is being significantly diminished and is in need of help. </p> <p align="justify">There are many staggering facts surrounding trees, however, one you don’t hear much about is that 27,000 trees are used each day simply to fill our daily demand for toilet paper. Similar to other paper products, the demand for toilet paper is increasing at a faster rate than ever. This can be primarily attributed to a global population that continues to grow, the increased adoption of Western lifestyles, and sanitation improvements in the developing world.</p> <p align="justify"><img src="//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/burial_pod_grande.jpg?v=1495851217" alt="" width="732" height="487" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p> <p align="justify">The paper demand is not going away any time soon, and other pressures on our forests don’t seem to be letting up either<strong>. So, what can we do?</strong> Here are a few ideas on how we can help… </p> <ul> <li> <strong>Organize a Community Event to Plant Trees:</strong> This can be at a church, city park, or even a piece of private land. Many nurseries and other organizations would donate trees to a great cause. And, yes, this is a great cause. It is something the entire family can be involved with and what a better time to do this than in the Spring or early Summer.</li> </ul> <ul> <li> <strong>Go on a Hike with Family or Friends:</strong> Enjoy the beauty of trees. Educate the younger generation about the importance of trees and the various types you encounter along the hike. And, of course, bring a few seedlings to plant along the way.</li> </ul> <ul> <li> <strong>Plant Trees in Your Yard:</strong> The more, the merrier. So, instead of the low maintenance rocks in the yard, dig a hole and plant a tree!</li> </ul> <ul> <li> <strong>Take Action Against Forest Destruction:</strong> There are many great organizations that are working hard to fight the destruction of the world’s forests. Just do some research online to find the organization that is right for you.</li> </ul> <ul> <li> <strong>Plant a Bio Urn with a Tree:</strong> If you have a set of a loved one’s ashes sitting on the mantle or in the closet, it’s time to take action. You can now create a <em>beautiful tree memorial</em> with their ashes and <strong>The Living Urn</strong> <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/">bio urn and planting system</a>. This <strong>burial pod</strong> is simple to use and they have great customer testimonials posted online. It’s an affordable, uplifting <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/pages/biotree_urn">bio tree urn</a> memorial that lets you (and your loved one) ‘give back’!</li> </ul>]]> </content> </entry> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/i-want-to-plant-a-tree-now-but-spring-shipping-has-ended-what-do-i-do</id> <published>2017-05-05T19:23:00-06:00</published> <updated>2017-05-06T13:41:27-06:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/i-want-to-plant-a-tree-now-but-spring-shipping-has-ended-what-do-i-do"/> <title>I Want to Plant a Seasonal Tree Now, But Spring Shipping Has Ended – What Do I Do?</title> <author> <name>Anirban .Das</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p align="justify">The Living Urn<strong>®</strong> has been used by thousands of families throughout the United States to grow beautiful living memory trees. It is unique for a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/pages/why-the-living-urn-is-your-best-option">number of reasons</a>, and one important reason is that it is the <span style="color: #38761d;">only BioUrn® designed to be used with seedlings or small trees, and not seeds</span>. Most families simply select a tree from The Living Urn<strong>®</strong> website, or choose from a list displayed at their local funeral home. The baby tree is then shipped directly from the Arbor Day Foundation, our exclusive tree supplier, at a great time to plant in early Spring or Fall. By following the instructions provided, the family then plants the tree with our <strong>special bio urn</strong> containing their loved one’s ashes and our proprietary additives.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Why do you only ship 'Seasonal' trees in early Spring and in the Fall? </strong>The premium 'Seasonal' trees provided by the Arbor Day Foundation are considered “bare root” trees, meaning they are prepped for shipping when in a dormant (“sleeping”) state and all of the soil is removed from the roots. Bare Root trees have some great advantages, but one limitation is that they need to be shipped and planted when they are dormant (“sleeping”). For this reason, we stop shipping in mid to late Spring as the trees begin to “wake up” and it is no longer safe to ship. The Arbor Day Foundation begins shipping again in the Fall once the weather cools down.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Is it ok to plant a ‘Seasonal’ tree in the late Spring, early Summer and early Fall? </strong>Yes! It is perfectly fine to plant at this time, just not bare root trees. </p> <p><strong>Ok, so what do I do to plant a ‘Seasonal’ tree with The Living Urn now? </strong>We have a convenient and easy solution for you and have developed an option just for this situation…</p> <ol> <li> <strong>Simply order <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/products/your-own-seedling">The Living Urn System Only product</a></strong>, which comes with everything you need, except the tree;</li> <li> <strong>Next, visit your local nursery and pick up the tree of your choice in a small pot.</strong> These trees are not “bare root”, and are “awake” and growing in the soil in the pot. Since they are in the growing medium, they can be safely transplanted even though they are “awake”;</li> <li> <strong>Then, follow the clear and simple instructions we provide</strong> on how to plant these trees with The Living Urn<strong>® </strong>and your loved one’s cremated remains to grow a living memory!</li> <li>You can plant any size tree with The Living Urn<strong>®</strong>, but trees in 3 to 5-gallon pot are a good choice and are of the size comparable to what you would receive from us in the Spring or Fall (and reasonably priced!). The Living Urn System Only is less expensive since it doesn’t come with a tree and the difference in price should cover or be close to covering the tree you pick up locally (depending on the tree size and your nursery).</li> <li> <strong>We Can Help Find You a Great Local Tree at <u>No Cost to You</u>! </strong>We just launched our <span style="color: #0000ff;"><em>Tree Help Program</em></span> to assist customers in easily finding a great seasonal tree in your area during the periods when we do not ship. As part of our Tree Help Program, we have compiled a list of excellent nurseries throughout the U.S. and can help you find the tree you want, when you want it locally. This is a completely complimentary service to our customers. Just give our Tree Help Line call at <strong>(800) 495-7022, ext. 705</strong>, or email us at localtrees@thelivingurn.com and let us know the tree type(s) you’re interested in and where you are located. Our dedicated staff will then help find you a great tree to pick up locally to plant with The Living Urn<strong>®!</strong> </li> </ol> <p align="justify"><strong><img src="//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/beautiful_tree_grande.jpg?v=1494033773" alt="" width="732" height="487"></strong></p>]]> </content> </entry> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/eastern-redbud-tree-a-stunning-beauty</id> <published>2017-04-24T07:37:00-06:00</published> <updated>2017-05-05T19:29:16-06:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/eastern-redbud-tree-a-stunning-beauty"/> <title>Eastern Redbud Tree – A Stunning Beauty With Amazing Spring Color!</title> <author> <name>Anirban .Das</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p align="justify">The <strong>Eastern Redbud Tree</strong> is a strikingly beautiful, small deciduous tree that, at maturity, will grow to about twenty feet in height. It has amazing pink and purple flowers in the Spring and has heart-shaped leaves that start out a reddish color, then turn green in the summer and yellow in the fall. Its branches grow in unique ways, simply adding to its stunning appearance. George Washington noted the beauty of this tree on multiple occasions in his diary and reportedly spent a good amount of time transplanting <strong>Eastern Redbud seedlings</strong> obtained from a local wooded area to his garden.</p> <p align="justify">In addition to its beauty, the Eastern Redbud is a strong and resilient tree. It can be found in most regions of the U.S. and is recommended for planting zones four through nine. It grows well in various types of soil and can thrive in full sun or part shade. For people who love trees but don’t have a ‘green thumb’, this is a great option for you!</p> <p align="justify">The redbud tree also has special traditional and modern uses. Its flowers are edible and extract from the bark and roots were once used as a treatment for fevers and the flu. In addition, branches of the redbud have been used to make baskets.</p> <p align="justify">This special tree is native to the U.S. and was first introduced for cultivation in 1641. Its pods contain seeds that are a food of choice for many animals, including cardinals, quail, turkeys, squirrels and white tailed deer. It’s also a food source for honeybees.</p> <p align="justify">In addition to being a favorite tree of many Americans over the past few hundred years, it is also now becoming a favorite of customers of <strong>The Living Urn</strong>, a special new <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/">bio urn and planting system</a> that gives people the ability to <em>grow a memorial tree</em> from a loved one’s cremated remains. Mark Brewer, co-founder and President of The Living Urn commented, “The Eastern Redbud Tree is one of the most popular tree options that we offer with our bio urn and planting system. People love its beauty and, when they ask which tree is best for their area, our arborists commonly suggest this tree because of how hardy it is."</p> <p align="justify"><img src="//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/Eastern_Redbud_Tree_grande.jpg?v=1493040817" alt="" width="732" height="487"></p> <p align="justify">Brewer continues, “The Eastern Redbud is truly a unique tree and, in combination with our special bio urn, serves as a great living memorial of a loved one. We continue to get amazing feedback from customers who purchased a Living Urn with this special tree.”</p>]]> </content> </entry> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/pre-planning-not-something-just-being-done-for-traditional-funerals</id> <published>2017-04-14T08:47:00-06:00</published> <updated>2024-05-22T00:48:45-06:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/pre-planning-not-something-just-being-done-for-traditional-funerals"/> <title>Pre-Plan Your Memorial With The Living Urn</title> <author> <name>Michael Walas</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p align="justify">The average person has to plan a funeral only once or twice in their lifetime. Most often, this is after a loved one has passed. During this time the emotional toll is high and the costs involved and time it takes to plan can be overwhelming. Most people will meet with a local funeral director to go over options for a loved one. Enlisting the help of family or friends can be helpful, especially when you’re also charged with the task of notifying family and friends of your loved one’s passing and the funeral arrangements.</p> <p align="justify">In order to help alleviate the stress placed on family members during this time of high emotions, more and more people are electing to pre-plan their funeral or memorial prior to passing. This gives them the ability to select everything they want in advance and paying for it up-front so it’s not a burden on family or friends. It also gives them peace-of-mind knowing their wishes are made known and all of the details of what happens after they pass is already taken care of.</p> <p align="justify">This is not just something being done for <strong>“traditional” funerals</strong>. According to Mark Brewer, President of The Living Urn, a <em>bio urn and planting system</em> that grows a tree from a special urn containing ashes, “We’re experiencing an increased interest from people who are looking to plan their memorial in advance. We get calls every day from a people who love the idea of planting a tree memorial after they pass and are looking to include <em>The Living Urn in their pre-planning process</em> – this includes healthy people in their 30s, to people with terminal illnesses, and others who are in the later stage of their life and just want to plan ahead.”</p> <p align="justify"><img height="488" width="732" alt="" src="//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/Pre_Planning_grande.JPG?v=1492144123"></p> <p align="justify">“To cater to this growing population of people who are planning their funeral arrangements in advance, we recently introduced a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/products/prepaid-cremation-services"><strong>Pre-Planning version of The Living Urn</strong></a>. This version comes with everything you need to grow a tree memorial, and includes a voucher card for a tree of choice. When you pass and the time comes to plant, a family member or friend will simply call us and we’ll send out the baby tree so it arrives fresh and ready to plant with The Living Urn containing your cremated remains.”</p> <p align="justify">Brewer continues, “People are passionate about giving back to future generations and are excited about using <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/">The Living Urn</a> to create an uplifting tree memorial after they pass. We’re honored to be the leading driver of this new movement.”</p>]]> </content> </entry> <entry> <id>https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/green-burial-a-growing-trend</id> <published>2017-02-06T08:31:00-07:00</published> <updated>2017-02-06T08:33:17-07:00</updated> <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/en-gb/blogs/news/green-burial-a-growing-trend"/> <title>Green Burial: A Growing Trend</title> <author> <name>Michael Walas</name> </author> <content type="html"> <![CDATA[<p align="justify">The eco-conscious consumer is not just a fad, it’s here to stay. People are seeking to live healthier, more active lifestyles. Many of these same people are also looking to continue to be eco-friendly after they pass with a green burial, or be memorialized in another environmentally friendly way. This consumer is beginning to recognize the detrimental environmental effects of traditional burials – significant wood resources are consumed to make an elaborate casket, concrete or metal resources are used to produce a vault that holds the casket, and embalming fluid that’sinjected into the deceased can leak out and be toxic to nearby groundwater.</p> <p align="justify">If you’re one of the millions of Americans who are opting against a “traditional burial”for yourself and are electing to be “green” after you pass, there are a growing number of options that you can choose from.</p> <p>One option is a <strong>green burial</strong>, or natural burial, without a fancy casket, vault, or embalming fluid. With its growing popularity, many cemeteries are beginning to dedicate a portion of their land to green burials where you can choose to be placed only in a simple wooden casket that biodegrades over time, or simply wrapped in a cloth – no vault, no embalming fluid. It allows for a person’s body to break down naturally without the presence of chemicals and become one with the earth. Markers for these types of burials are usually made of locally sourced wood or stone. With hundreds of green burial sites existing throughout the U.S. and more becoming available each week, you can most likely find one nearby you with a simple online search.</p> <p><img src="//cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/2679/files/Green_Burial_bee83176-717b-487c-9072-e28d1b536187_large.jpg?v=1486394911" alt="" width="640" height="333"></p> <p align="justify">Another option that’s growing in popularity is to become a tree after you pass. As a refresher from sixth grade science class - a tree generates oxygen, takes in carbon dioxide, and provides habitat for wildlife – something that truly gives back to the environment and future generations. A system that’s growing in popularity in the U.S. that gives families everything they need to successful grow a tree from a loved one is called <strong>The Living Urn</strong>®. It was developed by a group of entrepreneurs from Colorado, along with a team of arborists and soil scientists. This patent pending planting system comes with their proprietary BioUrn®, a <a href="https://www.thelivingurn.com/">biodegradable urn</a> made only from recycled plant materials and containing no glues or chemicals. It also comes with unique soil additives that counter certain properties in cremated remains to make the environment suitable for tree growth. Lastly, The Living Urn®comes with a tree seedling, or baby tree, of your choice provided by the Arbor Day Foundation, instead of a packet of seeds that other <em>bio urns</em> provide. Even experienced growers can find it challenging to grow a tree from a seed without the assistance of a greenhouse, and by starting with a baby tree, it’s much easier to grow a healthy, mature tree from your ashes.</p>]]> </content> </entry> </feed>