A spokesperson for Climate Action Sarnia-Lambton (CASL) says Aamjiwnaang First Nation will soon be home to southwestern Ontario's first natural burial site.
The First Nation announced recently it's in the process of preparing a large piece of land, north of Chippewa Crescent, for a new cemetery.
"A portion of that is going to be for natural burial," said Chief Janelle Nahmabin. "So there will be an option for our community members to be returned to the earth free of toxins."
With natural burials, there's also the option of being laid to rest in a biodegradable casket or wrapped in a shroud.
Nahmabin said the idea of natural burials came from a presentation by Allan McKeown on behalf of CASL.
"This actually will be the very first natural burial ground in southwestern Ontario. It's not available anywhere else, although we have been trying to get local cemeteries interested," said McKeown.
During a recent Kiwanis Club of Golden K meeting, McKeown asked if the natural burial option would be available to non-Aamjiwnaang members.
Nahmabin said that is something for the community to decide. However, she thanked McKeown for his advocacy on the eco-friendly option.
"If we can be an example of what you're trying to achieve, hopefully, other communities are able to see that and they're inspired," said Nahmabin.
According to CASL's website, natural burials reduce the carbon footprint, are more affordable, and conserve resources.
Nahmabin said they expect the cemetery project to be finalized this year.
Meanwhile, Aamjiwnaang First Nation Band Council said the entrance to the new cemetery will also act as an emergency road, exiting to River Road.
"This has been a safety concern for this area for quite a while. More so, when we've been updating our Emergency Plan. We are pleased to accept a donation from Plains Midstream to assist with the construction of the emergency road," read a community update posted to Facebook. "This new road will allow residents an alternative evacuation route in the event of an emergency at the south end of Virgil Avenue."
As part of the update, the band council also said construction of a new eight-plex, located behind the apartments on Tashmoo Avenue, is projected to be complete in the fall.
