6 Things You Should Know About Aquamation - An Even Greener Alternative to Cremation

6 Things You Should Know About Aquamation - An Even Greener Alternative to Cremation

Posted by Jordan Lindberg on Jul 13, 2022

  1. Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial methods. It uses a combination of water, alkaline chemicals, and heat to accelerate the natural decomposition process.
  2. The aquamation process involves placing the deceased in a special vessel filled with water and a solution of potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide, which creates an alkaline environment. The mixture is then heated to around 160-180 degrees Celsius (320-356 degrees Fahrenheit), and the body undergoes a process called hydrolysis, breaking down organic matter into its basic components.
  3. Aquamation is considered a greener alternative to cremation because it has a significantly lower carbon footprint. The process uses about one-tenth of the energy required for traditional cremation and releases fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. It also eliminates the need for embalming chemicals, metal caskets, and the land usage associated with burials.
  4. The resulting liquid from the aquamation process, known as "aquamated remains" or "effluent," is a sterile solution that contains the water-soluble components of the body. It can be safely returned to the environment through methods such as filtration or released into the sewer system. The remaining solid bone fragments are processed into a fine powder similar to traditional cremated remains.
  5. Aquamation offers several advantages over traditional cremation. It is a gentler process that doesn't involve direct flame or intense heat, preserving more of the body's structural integrity. It also eliminates the release of harmful emissions, such as mercury from dental amalgam fillings, which can occur during cremation. The aquamation process typically takes a few hours, whereas cremation can take several hours to complete.
  6. Currently, aquamation is legal in a growing number of jurisdictions, including several U.S. states and Canadian provinces. However, it may not be available everywhere due to varying regulations and the limited number of facilities offering aquamation services. As awareness of the process grows and more states and countries approve its use, aquamation is likely to become a more widely available option for environmentally conscious individuals and families.
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