Aquamation
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial. This process uses water and alkaline solutions to accelerate the natural decomposition of the body, offering a gentler and more environmentally conscious method of disposition.
This guide will explain how aquamation works, its benefits, comparisons to other methods, and its legal status across the United States.
1. Preparation
2. Introduction of Alkaline Solution
The vessel is filled with a mixture of water and alkaline chemicals, usually potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide.
3. Heating and Pressurization
The solution is heated to around 160°C (320°F) and pressurized to prevent boiling. This environment accelerates the natural decomposition process.
4. Decomposition
Over the course of 4 to 6 hours, the combination of heat, water, and alkaline chemicals breaks down the body into its basic chemical components. This process mimics the natural decomposition that occurs in soil but is significantly faster.
5. Final Products
The result is a sterile liquid solution of amino acids, peptides, sugars, and salts, and bone fragments. The liquid can be safely disposed of or used as a nutrient-rich fertilizer. The bone fragments are processed into a fine, white powder, similar to cremated ashes, which can be returned to the family.
How the Aquamation Process Works
How the Aquamation Process Works
1. Preparation
2. Introduction of Alkaline Solution
The vessel is filled with a mixture of water and alkaline chemicals, usually potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide.
3. Heating and Pressurization
The solution is heated to around 160°C (320°F) and pressurized to prevent boiling. This environment accelerates the natural decomposition process.
4. Decomposition
Over the course of 4 to 6 hours, the combination of heat, water, and alkaline chemicals breaks down the body into its basic chemical components. This process mimics the natural decomposition that occurs in soil but is significantly faster.
5. Final Products
The result is a sterile liquid solution of amino acids, peptides, sugars, and salts, and bone fragments. The liquid can be safely disposed of or used as a nutrient-rich fertilizer. The bone fragments are processed into a fine, white powder, similar to cremated ashes, which can be returned to the family.
Benefits of Aquamation
- Environmental Benefits: Lower Carbon Footprint: Aquamation uses significantly less energy than fire cremation and emits fewer greenhouse gases.
- Reduced Chemical Emissions: The process prevents the release of harmful chemicals such as mercury, which can be emitted during traditional cremation.
- Water Efficiency: The water used in aquamation is treated and returned to the water cycle, often cleaner than when it entered the process.
- Health and Safety: No Harmful Emissions: Aquamation does not produce the air pollutants associated with fire cremation.
- Sterile Byproducts: The remaining liquid is sterile and can be safely returned to the ecosystem.
Cultural and Ethical:
- Respectful and Gentle: Many find the water-based process to be a more gentle and respectful way of handling human remains.
- Positive Environmental Impact: Choosing aquamation contributes to the conservation of natural resources and reduces environmental harm.
Benefits of Aquamation
- Environmental Benefits: Lower Carbon Footprint: Aquamation uses significantly less energy than fire cremation and emits fewer greenhouse gases.
- Reduced Chemical Emissions: The process prevents the release of harmful chemicals such as mercury, which can be emitted during traditional cremation.
- Water Efficiency: The water used in aquamation is treated and returned to the water cycle, often cleaner than when it entered the process.
- Health and Safety: No Harmful Emissions: Aquamation does not produce the air pollutants associated with fire cremation.
- Sterile Byproducts: The remaining liquid is sterile and can be safely returned to the ecosystem.
Cultural and Ethical:
- Respectful and Gentle: Many find the water-based process to be a more gentle and respectful way of handling human remains.
- Positive Environmental Impact: Choosing aquamation contributes to the conservation of natural resources and reduces environmental harm.
Comparison to Fire Cremation and Green Burial
Fire Cremation
- Energy Use: Fire cremation requires substantial energy to maintain the high temperatures needed to incinerate a body.
- Emissions: It releases CO2 and other harmful pollutants, including mercury from dental amalgams.
- Process: Involves burning the body at temperatures between 1400-1800°F.
Green Burial
- Natural Decomposition: The body is buried in a biodegradable container without embalming, allowing for natural decomposition.
- Land Use: Requires dedicated space in a green cemetery or natural burial ground.
- Environmental Impact: Very low, but requires suitable land and resources for burial.
Aquamation
- Energy Use: Uses less energy than fire cremation.
- Emissions: Produces fewer harmful emissions, with the liquid byproduct being sterile and safe for disposal.
- Process: Accelerates natural decomposition using water and alkaline chemicals.
Legal Status in the United States
Aquamation is legal in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
The legal status is evolving, and more states are considering legislation to allow aquamation as awareness and demand for this eco-friendly option grow.
Aquamation offers a sustainable, gentle, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial. Its lower carbon footprint, reduced chemical emissions, and respectful process make it an attractive option for those looking to minimize their environmental impact.
As more states legalize this method, it is becoming an increasingly accessible choice for eco-conscious individuals and families.
- Aquamation Info
- Bio-Response Solutions
- National Funeral Directors Association – Green Funeral Practices
Legal Status in the United States
Aquamation is legal in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
The legal status is evolving, and more states are considering legislation to allow aquamation as awareness and demand for this eco-friendly option grow.
Aquamation offers a sustainable, gentle, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial. Its lower carbon footprint, reduced chemical emissions, and respectful process make it an attractive option for those looking to minimize their environmental impact.
As more states legalize this method, it is becoming an increasingly accessible choice for eco-conscious individuals and families.
- Aquamation Info
- Bio-Response Solutions
- National Funeral Directors Association – Green Funeral Practices