End-of-life planning and sustainable funeral options in the Netherlands

Discussions regarding end-of-life planning in the Netherlands are focusing on both environmental sustainability and practical preparation. Current funeral options include cremation, burial, sea burials, and scientific donation, with water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis) expected to become available soon.

Funeral entrepreneur Susanne Duijvestein notes that traditional funerals often have a significant environmental footprint due to international travel for mourners, the use of refrigerated or embalmed bodies, and coffins made of particle board with synthetic linings. To improve sustainability, options such as organic flowers, untreated wood or reed coffins, and natural shrouds are being encouraged.

In Roden, an information session titled ‘Dood uit de pot’ is being organized to help residents navigate the final stages of life. The event features experts discussing topics such as living wills, palliative care, hospice support, and spiritual guidance to encourage timely decision-making regarding end-of-life wishes.