Talk of the town：Green Burial in Hong Kong
【明報專訊】Where would you like future generations to pay their respects to you on Ching Ming Festival after you have passed away? These are questions that people seldom think and discuss, as discussing death is often considered a taboo in Chinese society. Currently, common burial practices involve interring the full body in a cemetery or placing cremated ashes (骨灰) in a niche. However, there is a growing focus on green burials, an eco-friendlier after-death arrangement.
Green burial offers a more environmentally friendly and sustainable method of handling cremated ashes. Instead of being placed in niches, ashes can be scattered in Gardens of Remembrance (紀念花園) or designated waters (指定水域), allowing them to return to nature and continue the cycle of life, which holds significant meaning.
Government data shows that the number of green burials has increased from around 2400 in 2011 to about 9400 in 2023. Several factors have contributed to this trend. Firstly, the rising cost of columbaria (骨灰安置所) due to limited land availability in Hong Kong may increase financial burdens on future generations. Secondly, with the government's ongoing efforts to promote environmentally friendly practices, people are becoming more open-minded to green burials.
An officer from a local social enterprise noted that green burials have straightforward procedures and are relatively affordable. She believes that green burials have become a popular choice. According to their data, over the three years since the enterprise's establishment, families of the deceased have opted for green burials in 40% of cases.
Life and Death Education
Hong Kong is a city where modernity and tradition coexist. As mentioned earlier, Chinese traditional beliefs are deep-seated in our minds; therefore, we rarely talk about ''death'' while still alive.
Recently, Kowloon Funeral Parlour (九龍殯儀館) held an open day for the general public. The event showcased how the body can be restored after death. Additionally, the activities of the open day included guided tours of the funeral parlour, experiences with funeral music, group readings of life and death education picture books, as well as art therapy. Many participants described the open day as ''exciting and interesting'', with some noting its uniqueness and how it helped alleviate the fear of death.
■Grammar booster
Opt for
To make a choice, especially of one thing or possibility instead of others.
E.g. Many students opt for study medicine because it offers a stable salary and allows them to help patients with their knowledge.
■Gear up
1. There are an increasing number of people choosing green burial in Hong Kong. (True/False)
Fill in the blanks with the glossary below.
2. The social problems that have arisen in that country are _________ and requires time to fix.
3. He is very _________ about the idea of student on their projects.
(Answers on next text)
■Glossary
taboo (n) 禁忌
scatter (v) 散落
open-minded (adj) 開明的
deep-seated (adj) 根深柢固的
(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view to rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)
[Smarties' Power English 第423期]
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