January 24, 2025
Sustainability and Memory: A New Vision for Funeral Services
Environmental Innovation and Cultural Respect in the Funeral Sector
In a global context where sustainability is becoming an urgent priority, funeral services and cemeteries face the challenge of reinventing their business models. The need to balance respect for memory with care for the planet presents a unique opportunity to transform this sector, proving that honouring life can be perfectly compatible with environmental preservation.
A Meeting that Redefines Paradigms
On 23 January, the new offices of CIRCLE Corporation in Verdú became the stage for a pivotal discussion about the future of the funeral sector. Juan Carlos Ferrán Huertas, Commercial Director of UNICO, met with Nuria Capdevila and Teresa Roig, respectively the founder and collaborator of CIRCLE Corporation, to explore a future where every farewell is both a tribute to life and to nature.
UNICO: Beyond the Conventional
With over two decades of experience in developing mausoleums and themed cemeteries, UNICO has transcended the traditional concept of funeral services. Its approach combines architectural innovation, bespoke design, and profound respect for the cultural traditions of each community. This vision has positioned UNICO as a leader in commemorative solutions that integrate beauty, functionality, and sustainability.
“At UNICO, we believe that every memorial space can become a place that celebrates both memory and the natural environment that surrounds us,” said Juan Carlos Ferrán during the meeting.
Sustainability as a Core of Transformation
The collaboration between CIRCLE Corporation and UNICO seeks to drive initiatives that combine the expertise of both entities to offer innovative and sustainable solutions in the funeral sector. This vision includes integrating eco-friendly materials, optimising the design of funeral spaces, and respecting biodiversity in commemorative environments.
A Future to Honour Memory and the Planet
This meeting marks the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at leading a transformation within the funeral sector. Sustainability is not just a necessity but also an opportunity for companies like CIRCLE Corporation and UNICO to contribute to meaningful change: proving that respect for the planet can be the greatest tribute we pay to those who have left us.
The Revolution of Eco-Design
The meeting highlighted the importance of aligning efforts towards a shared vision of sustainability, a principle that transcends sectors and areas of action. At CIRCLE Corporation, this commitment is embodied through innovative initiatives encompassing eco-design and the comprehensive transformation of business models.
Eco-design, in particular, plays a central role in integrating practices that minimise and optimise the use of resources, while promoting the incorporation of recyclable materials without compromising quality. This approach not only addresses environmental urgency but also provides tangible solutions to transform practices in sectors such as the funeral and industrial industries, encouraging the widespread adoption of responsible and sustainable habits.
It is not just about mitigating environmental impact but about fundamentally reimagining how we conceive services and products, turning every solution into an opportunity to create positive impact.
The EU Regulation 2024/1781 acts as an essential regulatory framework, but for forward-thinking companies, it represents more than a legal requirement: it is a platform to lead cultural change. In this context, every mausoleum and commemorative space designed under sustainable criteria becomes a powerful symbol of ecological responsibility and a commitment to future generations.
Beyond the Numbers: A Human Commitment
This partnership represents a deep commitment to local communities, embedding values such as sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. By supporting local producers and developing solutions that respect cultural, religious, and identity sensitivities, these companies are helping to redefine the role of cemeteries in the social fabric.
In a traditionally conservative sector, the challenges are vast: from adapting spaces to accommodate more inclusive funeral practices that embrace diverse spiritual traditions to responsibly managing environmental impact in urban and rural areas. Additionally, there are hurdles such as integrating technological innovations and creating spaces that serve not only as places of remembrance but also as venues for reflection, connection, and care for the natural environment.
By integrating these perspectives, CIRCLE Corporation and UNICO aim to build a model of funeral management that not only honours memory but also acts as a catalyst for social cohesion and a model of environmental responsibility.
A Vision for the Future
“It is not just about creating products,” said a spokesperson for CIRCLE Corporation, “but about generating experiences that honour life in all its complexity.” This philosophy translates into designs that incorporate natural elements, low-impact materials, and solutions that harmoniously interact with their surroundings.
UNICO brings its expertise in personalisation, while CIRCLE Corporation contributes its innovation in sustainability. Together, these companies are writing a new chapter in funeral services, where every farewell is also a respectful salute to the planet.
More Than a Trend, a Necessity
The meeting on 23 January was not just a simple business gathering. It was a silent manifesto for the future we want to build: a future where memory, respect, and sustainability walk hand in hand.
