Two sites for bushland burials in Perth

Bushland burials where you and the coffin really do return to dust are now available at a second site in Perth.

The burials involve no headstones, no chemical embalming and coffins made of biodegradable fibres.

There have been 28 natural burials at Fremantle Cemetery since a trial began four years ago and the option is now available at the base of the Quindalup Dunes at Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park in Perth's northern suburbs.

While Fremantle Cemetery is in the midst of a bustling environment, Pinnaroo is nestled in bushland and is considered the most environmentally responsible cemetery in Australia, according to WA Local Government Minister Tony Simpson.

The rules are strict: artificial tributes or commemorative items are not allowed but each grave is marked by a flat bronze plaque.

"There will be no traditional granite headstones and manicured grasslands here," Mr Simpson said on Monday.

"The body is returned to nature in a biodegradable coffin.

"The remains can return to earth to decompose naturally."

Natural burials have slowly become more prevalent in Australia, the main appeal being environmental friendliness and low cost.

There are green burial sites in Tasmania, NSW, Victoria and South Australia.