The world's first 'living coffin'

Here at Tester & Jones Funeral Services, we are always keeping an eye out for new innovations in our industry, particularly ones that offer our families a greener approach to funerals – as we are increasingly being asked for more environmentally-friendly options.

Among the most interesting new innovation is what claims to be the ‘world’s first living coffin’ – the Loop Living Cocoon from The Netherlands, created by Loop Biotech B.V.

We have seen it described in our industry media as a ‘mushroom’ coffin and that’s pretty accurate, as it is ‘grown’ (Loop Biotech says in just seven days) from mushrooms and upcycled hemp fibres.

The living coffin then apparently ‘enriches nature’ by biodegrading in only 45 days. It can also be used in a cremation.

According to Loop Biotech: “Mycelium, the underground root network of mushrooms, are known as nature’s biggest recyclers. Its power to transform dead organic matter into new life makes this organism the driving force in nature’s cycle of life.”

The cocoons are available in either ‘Wild’ or Calm’ (two different shades) and come with a soft bed of moss inside as standard, although families can opt for a hemp lining, a bed of wool or a soft bio-cotton lining. Each cocoon comes with six integrated jute handles.

While the Loop Living Cocoon is created in The Netherlands, it is available through a distributor in the UK. Please call us if you’d like to find out more: 01892 611811