In an interview with our colleagues from RTL Radio, Erasmy argued that this timeframe is increasingly impractical, especially with families often residing outside Luxembourg. Notably, Luxembourg would stand alone in Europe with this restriction.
Erasmy contended that Luxembourg approaches death with more restraint than many other countries, adding that ceremonies are much shorter in the Grand Duchy compared to other nations.
The tradition of laying out the deceased at home or in hospitals is relatively uncommon, with only 7% of customers opting for this practice. Erasmy also revealed that practically none of his customers request to take the urn with the ashes home – a practice which is, in any case, prohibited in Luxembourg.
One notable trend in the country is the growing popularity of forest cemeteries, with 26 currently in operation, the most recent opening in Howald in 2023. Erasmy pointed out that ample space exists in these forest cemeteries to meet the demand. However, there is a residency requirement for burials in forest cemeteries, which Erasmy suggested should be reconsidered to grant broader access to all citizens.
Erasmy thinks that organic urns, which can be used to grow a tree from a person’s ashes, are “a great idea,” but acknowledged that municipalities and the existing legal framework present obstacles. The demand for organic coffins, which decompose more easily, remains relatively low among customers, according to Erasmy. When it comes to coffins, most people prefer oak. However, oak coffins are not permitted to be used for cremations, which usually involve coffins made from pine or fir wood, according to Erasmy.
