Natural burials? What does that mean and what do New Mexicans think about it?

Death is something that can be awkward to talk about, and planning one's own funeral can be a strange dilemma.

Choice Mutual conducted an annual survey that ranks alternative burial preferences around America, and New Mexicans had a variety of answers.

Instead of traditional embalming techniques or a casket, Choice Mutual explores the different forms of burials that can be done in a more eco-friendly way. 45% of people cite that price is the most common concern when planning a funeral, according to the survey.

The survey also indicates the strong power of social media influence. Nearly one-third of New Mexicans stated they would be more open to the idea of an alternative burial if it were endorsed by a celebrity.

In terms of the most popular alternative to burials, New Mexicans chose natural organic reduction — also known as human composting — as the preferred option. Natural organic reduction was the most popular option between all people who participated in the survey. Natural organic reduction is the process of placing a body with organic materials such as wood chips and straw. Through the composting process, the body will slowly turn into a nutrient-rich soil.

The second most favored alternative option for New Mexicans is . In a similar process to natural organic reduction, the body is not embalmed and uses a biodegradable casket to help the body naturally decompose.

In fifth place, Land of Enchantment residents stated they could be buried by tree pod burials. In this alternative option, the body is placed in a biodegradable pod. A tree is then planted above that pod and as the body decomposes, it provides nutrients to the tree.

Mushrooms suits rounded out the top seven spots for New Mexicans. In this form of burial, the body is placed into a suit that is wrapped in mushroom spores. Once the body decomposes, the mushrooms neutralize the toxins that are released.

For New Mexicans who are interested in natural burials, La Puerta Natural Burial Grounds offers biodegradable containers.

Biodegradable Containers

• Burial shroud, Tru-Green Believer by Kinkaraco — $495 + tax

• 100% natural undyed cotton muslin with eight strong Jute carrying handles. May be used alone, with ceremonial shroud, or with personal blanket

• Willow carrier by Passages International — $700 + tax (size 5'9") to $780 + tax (size 6'5")

• For use with personal blanket or shroud. Sturdy, bio-degradable, kosher

• Bamboo coffin by Passages International — $1,350 + tax (only available in size 6'5")

• Sturdy, biodegradable, kosher

• Seagrass casket by Passages International — $2,300 + tax (size 5'9") to $2,400 + tax (size 6'5")

• Sturdy, biodegradable, kosher

• Sugar Pine coffin by Fathers Building Futures — $1,600 + tax

• Sturdy, biodegradable, kosher

Earth Funeral is another place in Albuquerque that provides human composting services. Over 45 days, the body is turned into a nutrient rich soil. Families can also decide how much soil they would like returned, and give the rest to local conservation sites for land restoration projects. Pricing can be found on the company's website.