ALBUQUERQUE, NM | June 22, 2026 Passages International, a leading provider of environmentally responsible funeral and memorial products, has announced new sustainability-focused improvements to its packaging practices, reinforcing the company’s long-standing commitment to honoring both families and the environment.
As part of an ongoing effort to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact, Passages has transitioned from traditional silica gel moisture control packets to kraft paper-based Dri Clay™ moisture absorbers across its product packaging. The company has also begun incorporating recycled jute bags as packaging for many of its cremation containers, further reducing reliance on synthetic materials and supporting the use of renewable resources. While these changes may seem small, they reflect a larger philosophy that has guided Passages since its founding: sustainability should be thoughtfully integrated into every aspect of the funeral experience.
“For us, environmental responsibility isn’t limited to the products we offer,” said Darren Crouch, President and CEO of Passages International. “We believe every detail matters. From the materials used in our urns and caskets to the way those products are packaged and delivered, we’re constantly evaluating opportunities to reduce our environmental footprint and better align our practices with the values of the families and funeral professionals we serve.”
Traditional silica gel packets are commonly packaged in plastic-based materials and often discarded after use. By transitioning to Dri Clay™ moisture absorbers housed in kraft paper packaging, Passages is reducing plastic waste while utilizing a moisture control solution that is naturally biodegradable and more environmentally conscious. In addition, recycled jute bags are now being used as protective packaging for Simple Bamboo and Simple Jute cremation containers. Made from natural plant fibers and recycled materials, these bags provide durable product protection while offering a more sustainable alternative to conventional packaging materials.
The initiative is part of Passages International’s broader mission to create meaningful funeral products that support environmentally responsible end-of-life choices. For more than 25 years, the company has pioneered biodegradable urns, eco-friendly caskets, Fair Trade-certified memorial products, and innovative solutions designed to help funeral homes meet growing consumer demand for sustainable funeral options.
According to the National Funeral Directors Association, interest in green funeral options continues to rise, reflecting a broader cultural shift toward environmentally conscious decision-making. Passages believes sustainability should extend beyond the visible product itself and into every stage of production, packaging, and delivery.
“Families who choose eco-friendly memorial products are making intentional decisions about their values and legacy,” Crouch added. “It’s important that we honor those choices not only through the products we create, but through the processes that support them. These packaging improvements are another step forward in our ongoing journey to operate as responsibly as possible.”
Passages International views these enhancements as the beginning of a continuous process. The company is actively evaluating additional opportunities to reduce packaging waste, incorporate renewable materials, and improve sustainability throughout its operations.
By focusing on both major innovations and smaller operational improvements, Passages remains committed to ensuring that environmental stewardship is reflected in every detail of the products and services it provides.
