Graveyards — Special landfills

Graveyards have been a matter of controversial debate for many years in terms of the risk they pose to the environment. However, literature data are inconclusive and there are no systematic studies available from modern graveyards with special reference to soil found in the vicinity of the coffin. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to systematically investigate a comprehensive exhumation series (involving 40 graves) in order to determine burial-related changes in matter and element content. Human burials lead to the accumulation of certain elements, with higher than normal levels of N, C, Zn, Ba, Ca and Na being observed in soils below coffins. Decomposition material inside coffins has much higher levels of heavy metals and alkaline elements than the surrounding soil. However, the major problem observed was the large quantity of synthetic bedding material which is more likely to lead to the formation of adipocere under the moist conditions given. Adipocere formation, which is the result of the anaerobic bacterial hydrolysis of fat, is known to interrupt the natural decomposition process and delay the post-mortem release of elements. We assume that once the inhumed matter has completely decomposed, much higher than normal levels of pollutants will be released into and have an ecological effect on the soil and water environment. ► We exhumed 40 graves to determine burial-related changes in matter and element content in modern graveyards. ► 25 years after interment we found large amounts of synthetic bedding material, undecomposed coffins and human remains. ► Human burial led to the accumulation of distinct elements like N, C, Ba. ► Formation of adipocere is impeding complete decomposition and the release of ‘ecotoxic’ elements.