Carolyn was about 70 years old and had a clear conviction: she wanted to give something back to the earth even after she died.
On Friday, September 4, people said farewell to her in Faulconbridge, New South Wales, and buried her in Springwood Cemetery inside a coffin unlike any other: the Loop Living Cocoon, made from fungal mycelium and recycled hemp fibers, weighs just 30 kilos and can be lined with moss or organic cotton. It is the first burial of its kind recorded in Australia, after passing the country’s strict biosecurity checks.
Her husband, Donald, said the choice reflected exactly who she was: someone who devoted her life to helping others and wanted to do the same until the end. While 70% of Australians choose cremation—which can generate up to 160 kilos of carbon dioxide—Carolyn’s body will fully merge with the earth in about 45 days, leaving no trace other than new life.
