It’s the circle of life: You live, you die, you become a tree. The Capsula Mundi Project has developed an organic, biodegradable burial capsule that will turn the deceased’s body into nutrients for a tree that will grow out of their remains.

After being encapsulated in the fetal position, the deceased is buried and either a tree or tree seed is planted above their capsule. The project’s site already has a number of trees to choose from.

The project is currently only a concept because Italian law forbids such burials. If it were allowed to proceed, however, the project’s aim would be to create entire memorial parks full of trees instead of tombstones. And instead of destroying and burying wood for wooden coffins, we would, at the end of our lives, provide sustenance for new trees instead. And indeed, the idea that our loved ones and descendants could visit our tree, care for it and rest in its shade is truly a comforting one.

(via Bored Panda)

Burial Pods: Eco-friendly alternatives to coffins!

Instead of visiting cemeteries, mourners will be able to visit sacred forests

Each client will be able to choose their favorite tree

The people buried inside the pods will become nutrients for their chosen trees