What Is a Mushroom Coffin?

What Is a Mushroom Coffin?

As eco-conscious funerals become more popular, one question is starting to emerge:
What if your coffin could give back to the Earth, instead of taking from it?

Enter the mushroom coffin, also known as a mycelium coffin—a living, breathing, and entirely biodegradable way to be laid to rest.

A mycelium coffin is made from the root-like structure of fungi, called mycelium. Mycelium is nature’s ultimate recycler—it breaks down organic matter and turns it into rich, healthy soil.

These coffins are grown (not manufactured) by combining mycelium with natural fibres like hemp or straw. Over a period of about a week, the mycelium weaves itself into a strong, durable structure shaped like a coffin. It is then dried to stop growth until it’s returned to the earth.

The leading provider is Loop Biotech, a Dutch company growing “living coffins” from mycelium. Their Loop Living Cocoon™ is made in just 7 days and breaks down in the soil within 6 weeks.

They also offer:

• Urns made from mycelium

• Tree planting packages as part of the burial process

• Modern, natural design with soft contours and an earthy look

Loop Biotech ships internationally and is helping to change the way we think about life, death, and our place in nature.

A mushroom coffin allows the body to decompose naturally while supporting the surrounding ecosystem. When buried, the mycelium awakens and begins breaking down the body and the coffin itself—neutralising toxins, enriching the soil, and helping new life grow.

It’s one of the most eco-friendly burial options available today. Unlike traditional coffins (which often contain metal, varnish, or hardwood), mycelium coffins are:

• 100% biodegradable

• Compostable within 30–45 days underground

• Made with zero synthetic materials

• Carbon negative

• Supportive of soil health and biodiversity

Choosing a mushroom coffin is a powerful way to return to the Earth gently and responsibly. It reflects a belief that death is not the end—but part of a cycle of renewal, growth, and care for the planet.

As more people ask how they can live—and die—with purpose, mycelium coffins offer a beautiful, forward-thinking answer.

Other - Environmentally Friendly Coffins

In November 2022, Julia Hailes—an environmental pioneer—shared a moving story about her mother, who became the first person in the UK to be buried in a mycelium coffin.

“It felt absolutely right. The coffin looked soft and simple, with a light, organic texture... and knowing it would nourish the earth was deeply comforting.”
— Julia Hailes (First person buried in a Mycelium Coffin UK)

This story beautifully illustrates how new eco-burial options can offer not only sustainability—but also meaning and peace.

The video she created showing the mushroom coffin and such an amazing celebration of life in a natural burial ground,  Higher Ground Meadow  in Dorset.