Environmental friendly way of cremation

As society progresses and our awareness of environmental issues grows, it becomes imperative to
explore innovative and sustainable alternatives in various aspects of life. One such area that has
garnered attention is the practice of cremation. Traditionally, cremation has relied on methods that
involve the combustion of the deceased’s remains, releasing harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
However, a relatively new and environmentally friendly technique called water cremation, also known
as aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis, has emerged as a promising alternative. What is this water
cremation?
Understanding water cremation
Water cremation is a process that involves the dissolution of human remains using a combination of
water, heat, and alkaline chemicals. Unlike traditional cremation, which uses direct flame-based
incineration, water cremation employs a gentle and natural decomposition method. The process takes
place within a specialized chamber, typically consisting of a stainless-steel vessel. The vessel is filled with
a mixture of water and an alkali such as potassium hydroxide. Through a combination of elevated
temperature and alkaline conditions, the body is gently broken down into its basic organic compounds,
leaving behind a sterile liquid and soft bone fragments.
Environmental benefits
Reduced Carbon Emissions
One of the most significant advantages of water cremation is its minimal impact on air quality.
Traditional cremation releases carbon dioxide, mercury, and other pollutants into the atmosphere. In
contrast, water cremation produces negligible amounts of greenhouse gases, making it a greener
alternative.
Preservation of Land Resources
Conventional burial methods require substantial land space, and the associated maintenance can be
burdensome. Water cremation offers a solution to this issue by eliminating the need for cemeteries and
reducing the strain on valuable land resources.
Conservation of Energy
Compared to traditional cremation, which requires a substantial amount of energy to sustain high-
temperature incineration, water cremation operates at lower temperatures. This results in significant energy savings, making it an efficient and sustainable option.

United States
Over the past few decades, water cremation has gained traction in several states, with legal acceptance
in places like California, Colorado, and Oregon. Facilities offering this alternative method have emerged,
providing families with a choice that aligns with their environmental values.
Canada.
In 2011, Manitoba became the first province in Canada to legalize water cremation. The process gained
recognition for its ecological advantages and its potential to revolutionize the funeral industry.
United Kingdom
Recognizing the merits of water cremation, the United Kingdom legalized the practice in 2022. The
decision was driven by the desire to reduce the environmental impact of funeral practices and provide
families with more sustainable options.
Water cremation presents a compelling case as an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional
cremation methods. Its ability to minimize carbon emissions, preserve land resources, and conserve
energy showcases its potential to revolutionize the funeral industry. The instances mentioned above,
where water cremation has been practiced before, serve as examples of the growing acceptance and
recognition of this method as a sustainable choice.
While it is essential to respect individual preferences and cultural traditions surrounding the handling of
human remains, embracing water cremation can provide families with an alternative that aligns with
their ecological values. As more jurisdictions consider legalizing and regulating water cremation, it is
crucial to raise awareness, educate the public, and promote conversations about these innovative
practices. By embracing environmentally friendly alternatives like water cremation, we can take
meaningful steps towards a more sustainable and compassionate future in end-of-life practices.