A green burial cemetery is also known as a natural burial ground, a woodland cemetery or a memorial nature preserve.

This modern burial practice has its origins in both environmental concerns and sustainable practices, and for some offers a spiritually fulfilling alternative to the conventional burial. With a green burial cemetery, the body is returned to nature in a biodegradable coffin.

Native vegetation  is planted over or near the grave in place of a conventional cemetery monument. A small wooden cross or marker is permitted for the first 12 months after interment.

The resulting green space establishes a living memorial and often forms a protected wildlife preserve.

The first eco-cemetery was created at Carlisle Cemetery in the UK in 1993 and was called woodland burial. Since that date approximately 200 natural burial sites have been created in the UK making it one of the fastest growing environmental movements.

Although the growth of trees is of primary importance it is essential that the trees are native and not alien to the area. In addition the management of the site ought to be conducive to good environmental practice. For instance, excess mowing would preclude the growth of wildflowers and deny the groundcover necessary for small mammals and other creatures.

The Nar Valley Green Burial Site is managed as a meadow, the grass mown two or three times a year, allowing wild flowers to flourish and the site is surrounded by a mature hedge of mixed trees and copses of larger trees. These are designed to attract wildlife and provide shelter whilst blending in with the natural Norfolk landscape.

Pathways will be cut to allow access to the grave areas as the grass grows in the early summer : the cutting takes place after the flowering period allowing natural regeneration.