Biodegradable and Eco-Friendly Body Bags: What the Claims Really Mean

Interest in natural burial and lower-impact funerals is growing. Suppliers increasingly market “biodegradable” body bags. Here is how to judge the claims.

Know the terms

• Biodegradable – will break down by biological action, but says nothing about how long or under what conditions.
• Compostable – breaks down under defined composting conditions within a set time, usually industrial composting. Recognised standards include EN 13432 and ASTM D6400.
• Oxo-degradable – conventional plastic with additives that fragment it into microplastics. Widely criticised; not a genuine biodegradable solution.
• Bio-based – made from renewable feedstocks, but not necessarily biodegradable.

Questions to ask

1. Which standard does the product meet, and who tested it?
2. Under which conditions – soil burial, industrial compost, cremation?
3. How long does degradation take?
4. What is the fluid resistance and safe working load?
5. Is the shelf life shorter than conventional bags?

Trade-offs

Some biodegradable films are less fluid-resistant or have a shorter shelf life. They may be suitable for transfer and natural burial but not for high-risk containment. WHO COVID-19 guidance, for example, called for non-biodegradable bags where bags were used for containment.

Alternatives

Natural-fibre shrouds (cotton, linen, wool, bamboo), wicker or cardboard coffins and reusable transfer covers for funeral homes can all reduce plastic use.

Need a quote or a specification check? Send your quantities, sizes and application to our Bulk & Tender Enquiries desk and we will match products to your requirements.

Educational resource only. This article does not replace facility protocols, infection-prevention policies, official forensic procedures, manufacturer instructions or legal advice. Always verify product suitability against the applicable protocol and supplier test evidence. Last reviewed: October 2026.