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Urn volume Required (Cubic inches)
GPI-BPTNM
| Capacity | 5 cu. Inches |
| Dimensions | 7.25"L x 9.5"W x 1.75"H |
| Material | Paper |
| Size | Keepsake and Small Urns |
The Passages® Biodegradable Paper Turtles are hand-crafted from recycled paper using non-toxic glues. The turtles are available in two sizes. The adult size will accommodate a full set of human remains, and the mini turtle will accommodate roughly two or three tablespoons of cremated remains.
The turtles are designed to float briefly before sinking. The time that the turtle takes to sink will depend on the weight of remains inside and local water conditions. Once the turtle sinks, it will biodegrade naturally over time.
Produced in North America by skilled artisans. The purchase of a turtle contributes to the preservation of a traditional local art form, and the artists producing these beautiful turtles are paid a fair wage in local workshop environments.
Turtle Urns are made by hand and will vary in appearance. These urns meet federal regulations requiring all containers used for burials at sea be 100% biodegradable. Check with local agencies to ensure that you are following all appropriate federal and local guidelines or regulations, such as distance from the shore.
A biodegradable urn is a type of cremation urn designed to naturally break down in soil or water, allowing cremated remains to return to nature with minimal environmental impact. These urns are commonly made from eco-friendly materials like paper, salt, sand, or plant-based fibers. Many biodegradable urns also use natural dyes and non-toxic adhesives to keep the urn completely earth-safe.
The amount of time a biodegradable urn takes to decompose depends on the material and where it’s placed. Some biodegradable urns dissolve in water in just a few hours, while others may take weeks or even months to break down in the ground.
For example, sand-and-gelatin urns may dissolve within days (or even hours) in water, but could take 2–3 months in soil. Paper biodegradable urns may float briefly before sinking and can biodegrade in less than 24 hours in water.
Yes, you can bury a biodegradable urn in the ground, and many families choose this option as part of an eco-friendly memorial. Ground burial is often simplest on private property, where the urn can be placed near a tree, garden, or memorial plant.
Some cemeteries also allow biodegradable urn burial, particularly those with green burial sections. If you’re unsure, a funeral director or local cemetery can confirm what is permitted. For burials on public lands, such as state or national parks, you’ll need to contact the managing agency to check regulations.
A biodegradable urn for water burial is designed to float briefly and then dissolve naturally, allowing ashes to be released in a respectful way. These urns may be used in oceans, seas, and sometimes large inland waters depending on local laws.
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidance for burial at sea, including:
Families may conduct the ceremony from their own boat or hire a charter. Many cruise lines also offer burial at sea services.
The time it takes for a biodegradable urn to dissolve in water depends on the urn’s material:
Water conditions such as temperature, currents, and salinity can also affect the timing.
Yes, it is generally legal to scatter cremated ashes in the ocean, either by releasing ashes directly into the water or by using a biodegradable urn designed for burial at sea.
In the U.S., the EPA requires that ocean scattering or water burial occur at least three nautical miles offshore. They also request that families notify the agency within 30 days after the burial.
No — human ashes do not dissolve in water and do not biodegrade. Cremated remains are made primarily of processed bone fragments and minerals such as calcium phosphates. When placed in water, ashes will not float and will remain as solid particles rather than dissolving like biodegradable materials.
