China's eco-burials reshape traditions as families choose nature over tombs
China is seeing a shift in burial traditions as eco-friendly alternatives gain popularity. Sea burials, tree burials, and online memorials are becoming more common across the country. Authorities and families are increasingly choosing these methods to honour loved ones while protecting the environment. Shanghai has led the way in eco-burials, with nearly 100,000 people opting for sea burials since 1991. Over 340,000 family members have taken part in these ceremonies. In 2025, the city recorded more than 10,000 sea burials in a single year for the first time.
Beijing has also embraced the practice, conducting nearly 40,000 sea burials since 1994. These now account for 4 percent of the city's annual cremations. Meanwhile, Heilongjiang Province made tree burials a key focus in 2023, particularly in the Greater Khingan Range. More than 20 regions nationwide have introduced policies to support eco-burials. These include financial incentives and investments in infrastructure. Online memorial platforms, such as Shenzhen's official service, allow people to pay respects remotely. Analyst Ding Daoshi notes that digital commemorations provide new ways to honour the deceased. Proposals for 'civilized Qingming commemorations' encourage families to remember ancestors while embracing modern, sustainable traditions. Calls have grown for more people to choose sea burials, tree burials, and flowerbed burials as a way to return life to nature.
The rise in eco-burials reflects a broader change in how people approach memorials. With more regions adopting supportive policies, these methods are likely to become even more widespread. Families now have more options to honour their loved ones while reducing environmental impact.
