aquamation

Aquamation: The Eco-Friendly Cremation Alternative Revolutionizing Green Funerals

Green Funerals

Also known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation offers a gentle, low‑carbon way to return the body to nature.

With rising interest in sustainable end‑of‑life options, more families are rethinking burial and flame cremation. Enter aquamation—a water‑based process that uses a fraction of the energy of traditional cremation and produces no direct air emissions. Below, explore how it works, the environmental edge, legal status, and costs.

Key takeaways

💧 Uses water, gentle heat, and alkali—no flame, smoke, or direct emissions.

🌱 ~90% less energy than flame cremation; avoids mercury release from dental fillings.

📜 Legal for human use in 28+ U.S. states and expanding (availability varies by locality).

💵 Typically $1,500–$3,000, comparable to cremation depending on provider.

What Is Aquamation and How Does It Work?

Scientifically called alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation combines 95% water and 5% alkali at controlled temperature (~300°F) and pressure to gently accelerate natural decomposition (6–8 hours). The result is bone ash (returned to families in an urn) and a sterile, DNA‑free liquid safely returned to the water cycle. You may also see it called resomation, and it’s increasingly used for both human and pet services.

  1. 🧰 The body is placed in a sealed stainless‑steel vessel.
  2. 💦 A water/alkali solution circulates at gentle heat and pressure.
  3. 🕊️ Tissues reduce naturally; bone fragments are processed into fine ash for the urn.
  4. 🌊 The remaining liquid is sterile and free of biomaterial.

Why it’s greener

Flame cremation can emit ~534.6 lbs of CO₂ per service and release mercury from dental fillings. Aquamation avoids combustion entirely.

  • No direct air emissions
  • ~90% lower 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 (e.g., California, Florida, Illinois, Oregon) with more jurisdictions evaluating standards and licensing. Availability can vary locally—always verify with providers and your state’s rules.

Quick checklist
  • Confirm legal status & permits with a local funeral home.
  • Ask if they offer alkaline hydrolysis and what memorial options exist.
  • Compare pricing, timelines, and urn choices.
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 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 to see if water cremation aligns with your wishes for a meaningful, eco‑conscious farewell.

Talk to a provider

Resources: CANA • Aquamation Info • Green Burial Council • Science News

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