Eco-Friendly Farewell: New Zealand Wool Caskets and Urns Gain Popularity

In an effort to offer a sustainable alternative for those seeking environmentally friendly end-of-life options, Exquisite Wool Traders is making waves with their eco-friendly caskets and urns made from New Zealand wool. Founded in the 1980s by John and Marylyn Betts, the business has transitioned into the capable hands of their daughter, Polly McGuckin, and her husband Ross, who are now at the helm of this innovative venture.

A Growing Trend in Eco-Burials

Polly McGuckin shared insights about the increasing popularity of Natural Legacy Woollen Caskets over the past 13 years, highlighting how consumer awareness around eco-burials has shifted. “We started out doing bedding blankets, and that was going on for three years, and then we got offered Natural Legacy Woollen Caskets,” McGuckin explained. This pivot showcases the company’s commitment to adapting to changing market demands while maintaining a focus on sustainability.

The woollen caskets stand out for their sturdiness, capable of supporting weights up to 220 kg. Each casket undergoes a meticulous manufacturing process, which includes a special washing technique akin to felting. They are reinforced with jute, providing durability much like handbag straps, a design choice that adds both function and aesthetic appeal.

Craftsmanship Rooted in History

Interestingly, the concept of wool caskets has historical roots dating back to the 1700s when Parliament mandated that individuals be wrapped in woollen shrouds. This historical context inspired the design of their caskets, crafted in the UK by an old mill. “They researched back in time to find out why the wool industry had a resurgence, and that’s how it all got started,” McGuckin noted.

However, due to manufacturing limitations in New Zealand, these caskets cannot be produced locally. “The mill spent a small fortune designing not only the product but also milling the cloth itself,” she added, emphasizing the level of investment and craftsmanship involved in the creation of each piece.

Compatibility with Eco Burial Standards

One of the significant advantages of these wool caskets is their alignment with eco-burial standards. For a burial to qualify as eco-friendly, loved ones must be interred without non-biodegradable materials. According to McGuckin, “It has to be natural fibre, not synthetic. So they are suitable for eco-burial and cremation as well. They’re very low in emissions for cremation.”

This compatibility places Exquisite Wool Traders in a prime position to cater to the growing demand for environmentally conscious funeral options, appealing particularly to families looking for sustainable choices.

Marketing Challenges and Successes

Despite the burgeoning interest in their products, promoting eco-friendly alternatives poses its challenges, according to Patrick Cotter, who manages marketing for the company. “In the last couple of weeks, we’ve sold almost dozens. I know families personally that have had them, and they just said it was a really nice alternative, especially when families are coming from a farming background,” he stated.

Cotter’s comments reflect a positive trend in consumer preferences, where families increasingly seek meaningful and sustainable ways to honor their loved ones. As word spread about the unique offerings, more families are exploring these woollen options, indicating a shift in traditional funeral practices.

Expanding the Range of Products

In addition to caskets, Exquisite Wool Traders also offers woolen urns, further diversifying their product range. The introduction of these alternatives allows families to choose eco-friendly options for both burial and cremation, contributing to a more comprehensive approach to sustainable end-of-life planning.

Overall, Exquisite Wool Traders stands at the forefront of a movement towards greener funerals in New Zealand. By focusing on high-quality craftsmanship, historical significance, and compatibility with modern eco-burial practices, the company is redefining how we think about rest and remembrance in an environmentally responsible manner.