Old law inspires 'green' coffins

green#topic

A West Yorkshire company that wanted to expand its business by creating an eco-friendly product has found inspiration from a 17th century law governing burials.

Textiles firm Hainsworth has launched a range of biodegradable coffins which are made from pure new wool or heavy organic cotton supported on a strong, recycled cardboard frame.

Rachel Hainsworth, sales director at the firm, said: "This is an innovative coffin and something completely new for the modern coffin market, but the use of wool in burials is not new."

In an attempt to boost the prospects of the cotton industry, the Burial in Woollen Act of 1666 made burial in English woollen shrouds mandatory for all except those who died of plague.

"In a way, the industry has come full circle." said Ms Hainsworth.

The Pudsey-based firm, probably best known for making uniforms for the likes of the Royal Guards, has undertaken the venture in collaboration with coffin maker JC Atkinson and Son, based in Washington in Tyne and Wear.

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