At Ecoffins, we take pride in being the original innovators of the eco-coffin
trend in the UK. Since our inception, we have led the way in offering families
a truly sustainable choice for their loved ones. As the UK’s premier manufacturer and supplier of environmentally friendly coffins and urns, we are committed to ensuring every product we create helps protect our planet for future generations.
Ecoffins founder William Wainman started the business selling Bamboo based products after becoming fascinated by the material during 2½ years spent teaching English in China with the Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO).
A small factory was set up in the central Chinese province of Hunan to produce furniture with a small team of fairly paid and supported craftspeople.
After a request by the British Embassy in Beijing, a small run of bamboo coffins were produced, much the same as they are today. These sold quickly as natural burial began to take off in the UK and people became more aware of the environmental impact of funerals. The factory started producing coffins full time to provide eco-friendly coffin alternatives.
The business was renamed Ecoffins reflecting the products environmentally friendly credentials.
After being awarded a prestigious scholarship to the Kellogg Graduate School of Management in the United States, William embarked on a significant research project focused on market trends within the American funeral industry, conducting extensive fieldwork at funeral homes across the country.
His dedication to ethical business practices and the improvement of labour conditions for Ecoffins weavers in China culminated in a major milestone in 2006, when Ecoffins, under his leadership, was officially recognized as a member of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO). This honour marked a historic achievement, as Ecoffins became the first UK-based coffin manufacturer to attain this globally respected status and the first UK company to gain Fair Trade Status in the People's Republic of China (PRC).
Building on their continuing success in the UK, Ecoffins responded to a rising wave of consumer interest in environmentally responsible products by expanding their range of eco-friendly coffins. This growing demand reflected a broader societal shift toward sustainability, particularly in how people approached end-of-life choices. In response, Ecoffins introduced a diverse selection of natural and biodegradable materials, including hand-woven Willow and English Willow, responsibly sourced Pine, and fully recyclable cardboard designs—each offering an eco-conscious alternative to traditional coffin styles.
As the company grew, so did its team. With expansion came the development of progressive internal policies designed to reflect best practices in ethical employment, environmental responsibility, and operational excellence. Ecoffins cultivated a working culture rooted in fairness, innovation, and social responsibility—further reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable funeral solutions.
Driven by a passion for the environment and a deep sense of responsibility toward the planet, Ecoffins remained committed to integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations. As the company continued to grow, this commitment was physically embodied in the construction of a purpose-built, eco-friendly office and warehouse in the heart of rural Kent. Designed by acclaimed architect William Matthews—renowned for his role as site architect of The Shard in London—the new facility combined modern design with environmentally conscious materials and energy-efficient features, creating a workspace that reflected the values at the core of the business.
This ethos extended well beyond the UK. In China, Ecoffins’ long-standing Fair Trade partnership continued to thrive with the team in Hunan. Reflecting the same principles of ethical labour and environmental care, Ecoffins responded to growing demand by constructing an entirely new workshop, purpose-built to support increased production while
upholding Fair Trade standards. New Fair Trade partnerships were forged in Indonesia with Ecoffins connecting with Fair Trade collectives to create and supply a new range of Pandanus and Banana Leaf products to further increase the sustainable coffin options available. Ecoffins expansion not only allowed the team to scale responsibly but also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to dignified work, environmental stewardship, and international cooperation.
This ethos extended well beyond the UK. In China, Ecoffins’ long-standing Fair Trade partnership continued to thrive with the team in Hunan. Reflecting the same principles of ethical labour and environmental care, Ecoffins responded to growing demand by constructing an entirely new workshop, purpose-built to support increased production while
upholding Fair Trade standards. New Fair Trade partnerships were forged in Indonesia with Ecoffins connecting with Fair Trade collectives to create and supply a new range of Pandanus and Banana Leaf products to further increase the sustainable coffin options available. Ecoffins expansion not only allowed the team to scale responsibly but also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to dignified work, environmental stewardship, and international cooperation.
Ecoffins remains proudly family-owned, with its founding values continuing to guide the company’s direction. Rooted in a deep respect for both people and the planet, the business is driven by a commitment to sustainability, compassion, and ethical practice. As it looks to the future, Ecoffins is actively developing new products that reflect the evolving needs of families—combining innovative, environmentally friendly materials with thoughtful design to offer meaningful alternatives in end-of-life care.
Beyond product development, Ecoffins continues to promote greater awareness of eco-friendly funerals and the importance of making choices that reduce environmental impact. Equally central to the company’s mission is its dedication to creating a workplace culture that values fairness, wellbeing, and collaboration. Whether through the materials it sources, the people it employs, or the families it serves, Ecoffins is committed to making a positive difference—today and for generations to come.
Good Funeral Awards 2017
We were voted ‘Best coffin supplier’ for 2017 by The Good Funeral Awards. They singled out for our fantastic customer feedback and attention to detail of which we are very proud.
National Association of Funeral Directors
Established in 1905, the NAFD represents the interests of the entire spectrum of funeral directing businesses – including independent businesses, the Co-operative and other major funeral groups – who conduct in excess of 80% of UK funerals every year.
Coffin Casket and Shroud Association
Setting the standard for all coffins, caskets and shrouds sold in the UK, in particular those used for cremation and to encourage manufacturers of these products to adopt more green-minded practices in all aspects of their work. All of Ecoffins' coffins and caskets have been independently tested and certified fit for cremation by the CCSA.
Association of Green Funeral Directors
Working to help members of the public find funeral homes in their area which are willing to provide greener options in the funerals they carry out. In addition the AGFD works to encourage funeral directors to become more green-minded in all aspects of their work and help bring natural funerals into the mainstream.
World Fair Trade Organisation
The World Fair Trade Organisation is a global network of organisations representing the Fair Trade supply chain. Membership in WFTO organisations with credibility and identity by way of an international guarantee system, a place of learning, provides tools and training to increase market access, and creates a common voice that speaks out for Fair Trade and trade. Members must demonstrate 100% commitment to Fair Trade and apply the 10 WFTO Principles of Fair Trade to their supply chain. The works and achievements of its members make WFTO a global authority on Fair Trade and a guardian of Fair Trade values and principles.
The Good Funeral Guild
An association with an aim to create change in the funeral industry. Offering the opportunity for exchange of ideas between funeral professions while nurturing, supporting and encouraging progressive practice among undertakers and ceremony leaders. Raising public awareness of end-of-life and funeral consumer issues and lobbying HM Government and the funeral industry’s trade associations in support of the interests of funeral consumers.
Investors in People
Ecoffins achieved Platinum status with Investors in People, an organisation that champions better work environments and stronger leadership. This accreditation reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting our team’s wellbeing, development, and performance—ensuring that our people are empowered, valued, and equipped to thrive. We believe that when we invest in our people, everyone benefits: our employees, our customers, and the planet.
