Last Updated on: January 2nd, 2025
Reviewed by Kyle Wilson
For this discussion, funerals are more distinctive of modern times than it is possible to identify a wide range of related environmentally friendly funeral orientations. Of these, water cremation also known as aqua cremation or alkaline hydrolysis has turned out to be an innovation and more environment friendly compared to conventional cremation. This method is less invasive and makes separation possible while observing sustainability and challenging creativity.
Whether you already know about water cremation and the differences between this process and other types of cremation or simply are interested in learning about human composting and what it can offer, this guide will clarify the type of procedure for you. We will also cover the advantages, the permits you need, the prices, and what the families should know before making the choice.
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Water cremation, which is also called aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis, is one of the new trends in how to dispose of the human body. It incorporates water, heat, and a minimal amount of alkali chemicals to catalyze the body’s process of decomposition. This helps mimic this process, which otherwise takes place in the soil, over the course of several years, in only a matter of days.
It is entirely different from conventional cremation where the body is burned and carbon dioxide is emitted into the atmosphere; water cremation on the other hand does not release any deleterious gases. The end product is an environmentally friendly process that will fit the green burial movement of those who desire an environmentally perfect burial.
You may have heard of water cremation and aqua cremation, what you may be wondering is if the two are the same. As a matter of fact, they are one and the same thing. These are other common names for this process of digestion since they both are used to refer to alkaline hydrolysis. When people use water cremation or aqua cremation, it only refers to the process in which water, heat, and some alkalis are used to reduce a body.
Aspect | Water Cremation | Aqua Cremation |
Decomposition Method | Water and alkaline chemicals | Water and alkaline chemicals |
Environmental Impact | Low carbon emissions | Low carbon emissions |
Residue | Bone fragments | Bone fragments |
Legality | Varies by location | Varies by location |
In simple terms, these terms are different names for the same sustainable cremation method.
Water cremation referred to as alkaline hydrolysis is an environmentally friendly and dignified way to deal with the deceased. In contrast with fire cremation, water cremation is based on water, heat, and a gentle alkali to promote muscle tissue breakdown. This coming-age approach is being embraced for its environmental impacts and the respect given to families.
The process starts by putting the body in a well-sealed stainless-steel enclosure known as the retort. This chamber makes it possible to maintain restricted conditions for the entire process afoot.
Potassium hydroxide solution is then added to the chamber together with water. This solution starts the decomposition process while at the same time not being as harsh.
The chamber is then heated to the temp ranges of 160-180°C (320-360°F). A small force is exerted to help it catalyze making the body decompose naturally into simpler substances.
In this developing stage, the hydrolysis process takes place; it is a form of a chemical reaction. The body’s soft part melts, and the textures turn to sterile solution and bony chips.
Likely to take approximately 4 to 6 hours to complete the process. The leftover liquid is environmentally friendly and can be washed away while the bones are managed and washed carefully.
The bones are dried and then ground into an immensely fine and similar to ashes powder form. As in the case of common cremation, the ashes are returned to the family for their remembrance.
Water cremation, a relatively new approach to body disposal functions as an effective displacement of conventional cremation. Here are the key reasons families are opting for this innovative and thoughtful method:
Direct sea burial also remains an option that is environmentally friendly and has much less impact as compared to water cremation. Far from having the same carbon emissions as those produced during funeral pyres, traditional flame-based cremation also emits various gases and pollutants into the air. Unlike most other burial methods it utilizes a mild water solution to dissolve the body making it the most preferred by many families who are conscious of the environment.
The water cremation process is noninvasive and resembles the natural process of decomposition, thereby finding great comfort in being at one with nature. This gentleman’s approach enables a family to part with their dear one in a calm, dignified manner which fits many families’ ethos in terms of death.
Another myth people have about water cremation is that families cannot get the remains of their loved ones to keep. In fact, families get fine, sand-like ash which can be stored or buried, or used in another manner just like ashes from normal cremation. This is important in order to respect the loved ones by providing a worthy sendoff, as people wish to have a special burial or funeral for loved ones.
The process of water cremation is not only quite humane but also very sanitized. Which in turn are byproducts of the process and with no traces of toxic chemicals, no emissions or pollutants are produced. The kind of liquid solution used is harmless to the environment which makes this method enhance ecological balance.
It’s not just about having a green attitude toward the planet toward the future or sparing some extra bucks; it is about how a modern beauty-compassionate human being would want to lay their roots. People especially families like the method because it is not invasive and the ashes can be buried or scattered to give that bit of closure. Also, the increased focus on climate change makes this method correspond to environmental values and, in particular, conservation.
Water cremation also referred to as alkaline hydrolysis or aquamation is a comparatively new, environmentally friendly form of funeral rites, unlike traditional cremation and burial. Worthy of note are several features that are associated with this new approach, making it rather attractive to people and families.
Green solution devoid of any toxic byproducts and consuming fewer calories in contrast to the flame ones water cremation emerges. Since the process does not involve combustion, It stops the release of harmful toxins and greenhouse gases, making it good for the environment for those who want to support green efforts.
Current burial practices of cremation emit trace gases that upset the climate change balance in the atmosphere. On the other hand, water cremation reduces the green impact connected with funeral services and burial plans. It also has the support from the public as those who care for the environment will feel supported.
Water cremation, therefore, is an embodiment of energy efficiency. While flame cremation inflicts more prolonged exposure to the scorching heat in high temperatures, water cremation uses water, heat as well as an alkali solution. This in turn greatly reduces the amount of energy used to accomplish the same outcome.
The ashes of water cremation retain bones in a comparatively smooth and coherent form without any odor. While such burning leads to the formation of urge, soft and pure white bone fragments are provided to families giving them an option to either bring home urns or scatter ashes in a befitting manner. This preservation makes a lot of sense and gives families an opportunity to have a meaningful way of paying their last respects to their beloved.
Another difficulty of flame cremation is the emission of pollutants which are for example mercury from the fillings. Water cremation does away with this problem. The process does not introduce impurities into the air and thus helps in reducing airborne diseases due to polluted air.
While water cremation has many advantages, several complex challenges and considerations need to be resolved to facilitate its widespread acceptance:
Limited Awareness: There is a lack of awareness of the water cremation, advantages, and the operational techniques among the funeral directors, and consumers, and hence the slow rate of uptake.
If these legal, cultural, and logistical considerations are met, water cremation can solidify as a sustainable and honorable new method for handling the deceased.
Both methods aim to provide a dignified end-of-life option, but they differ in their environmental impact and processes.
Aspect | Water Cremation | Flame Cremation |
Method | Water + alkaline chemicals | High heat + fire |
Energy Use | Lower energy consumption | Higher energy consumption |
Environmental Impact | Minimal pollutants | Significant carbon emissions |
Residue | Sterile liquid + bone fragments | Ashes + potential pollutants |
Alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation usually lasts between 4 to 6 hours. However, depending on the size and makeup of a body, the number of people, and the effectiveness of equipment, the time can range from some minutes to several hours. For comparison, the timeline of traditional flame-based cremation also funds vary based on such considerations. That is why, although the process can take several minutes longer in some cases, water cremation is considered to be the most ecological option.
This form of cremation is relatively cheap and ranges slightly above that of conventional flame-based cremation, say $ 3500 from affordable burial service providers.
Aspect | Water Cremation | Flame Cremation |
Duration | 4–6 hours | 2–4 hours |
Average Cost Range | $2,000–$5,000 | $1,500–$4,000 |
Eco-Friendliness | High | Moderate |
Common Add-ons | Urns, memorials, ceremonies | Urns, memorials, ceremonies |
Key Cost Factors | Location, service package, funeral home policies | Location, service package, funeral home policies |
When it’s time to choose the kind of cremation to opt for, then one has to compare water cremation and traditional cremation and go for the one that favors the family’s aspirations, principles,s and situation. Here is a thorough examination of the important factors to think about:
Processes such as water cremation and aqua cremation are in the process of paving the way for funeral sustainability. These remain as other methods, which are ecological if compared to normal burns that make up cremation, and which use water to reduce the body.
At the same time, the development of the mechanisms of protection and rights support enables understanding the process, benefits, costs, and legalization to make value-driven decisions. We could see that with the increasing awareness of this method, water cremation could be an option like any other natural burial method.
Aqua cremation is sometimes referred to as water cremation and is a process called alkaline hydrolysis. Water, heat, and an alkali solution dissolve the body and leave the bones which are crumbled to ash.
The method that is used to creme a body has been legalized in some countries while in others it is still unlawful. In the majority of U.S. states, it is legal. And some countries it can only be gotten from funeral directors or any other authorities that deal with such products after contact has been made.
Yes, water cremation is biologically safer compared to the current fire cremation. It consumes less electricity, discharges minimal greenhouse gases, and does not emit toxic gases to the surrounding environment.
Cremation by water requires about 3 to 4 hours and that is relatively faster than burning the body through fire cremation.
After the water cremation process, the bones are then dried and ground to ashes like those of the conventional cremation. When these ashes are taken they can be placed inside an urn, buried, or made use of during ceremonial occasions.
Senior Writer & Licensed Life Insurance Agent
Iqra is a dynamic and insightful senior writer with a passion for life insurance and financial planning. With over 8 years of hands-on experience in the insurance industry, Iqra has earned a reputation for delivering clear, actionable advice that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their financial future. At Burial Senior Insurance, she not only excels as a licensed insurance agent but also as a trusted guide who has successfully advised over +1500 clients, helping them navigate the often complex world of life insurance and annuities. Her articles have been featured in top-tier financial publications, making her a respected voice in the industry.
Burial Senior Insurance provides information and services related to burial insurance for senior citizens, including policy options and end-of-life support services.
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