Aquamation: The Eco-Friendly Cremation Alternative Revolutionizing Green Funerals
Aquamation: The Eco‑Friendly Cremation Alternative Revolutionizing Green Funerals
Also known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis
With growing environmental concerns and demand for sustainable end‑of‑life options, more families are rethinking traditional burial and cremation. Enter aquamation—a gentle, water‑based process that returns the body to nature with a fraction of the carbon footprint of flame cremation. Below, explore how it works, its environmental edge, legal status, and costs.
Key takeaways
- 💧 Aquamation uses water, heat, and alkali—no flame, no smoke, no direct emissions.
- 🌱 Uses ~90% less energy than flame cremation and avoids mercury release from dental fillings.
- 📜 Legal in 28+ U.S. states and expanding—verify availability locally.
- 💵 Typically $1,500–$3,000, comparable to cremation depending on location/provider.
What Is Aquamation and How Does It Work?
Aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis) is a water‑based cremation process. Instead of using fire, aquamation combines water, heat, and a small amount of potassium or sodium hydroxide to reduce the body to its basic elements. This gentle process mimics natural decomposition in about 6–8 hours.
- The body is placed in a sealed stainless‑steel vessel.
- A 95% water / 5% alkali solution is heated (~300°F) under controlled pressure.
- Tissues gently reduce; bone fragments remain and are processed into a fine powder for the urn.
- The remaining liquid is sterile and DNA‑free, safely returned to the water cycle.
This process—sometimes called resomation—is increasingly chosen for both human and pet funerals due to its minimal environmental impact.
Environmental Benefits of Aquamation vs. Traditional Cremation
Flame cremation burns fossil fuel and can emit ~534.6 lbs of CO₂ per service (about a 500‑mile car trip), and may release mercury from dental fillings. Aquamation avoids combustion entirely and slashes energy use.
Why it’s greener
- No direct air emissions
- ~90% less energy use
- No mercury release
- Pairs well with green burials
Is Aquamation Legal and Available in Your State?
As of 2024, aquamation is legal for human use in 28+ U.S. states (including California, Florida, Illinois, and Oregon), with more jurisdictions evaluating standards and licensing. Availability varies by locality—always verify with a provider.
Quick checklist
- Confirm legal status & permits with your local funeral home.
- Ask if they offer alkaline hydrolysis and what memorial options are available.
- Compare pricing, timelines, and urn options.
Helpful starting points: CANA • Aquamation Info
Cost of Aquamation vs. Cremation
Expect aquamation to range around $1,500–$3,000, similar to flame cremation in many markets. Prices vary by region and provider availability. For eco‑conscious families, the reduced footprint often justifies a modest premium where it exists.
Ask providers about:
- What’s included (transport, permits, urn)
- Timing and family viewing options
- Memorial service add‑ons
More on green choices:
FAQ
Is aquamation safe for the environment?
Yes. There’s no combustion, no direct air emissions, and byproducts are sterile and chemical‑free.
Do we still receive remains?
Yes—bone ash is returned in an urn, similar to traditional cremation.
Can we hold a memorial service?
Absolutely. Families often pair aquamation with a celebration of life or graveside ceremony.
A Greener Goodbye
With its low carbon footprint, gentle process, and growing legalization, aquamation is a future‑forward choice for families who value sustainability. Speak with a local provider and explore whether water cremation aligns with your wishes for a meaningful, eco‑conscious farewell.
Resources: CANA • Aquamation Info • Green Burial Council • Science News
