Aquamation: Understanding an Environmentally Friendly Alternative to Traditional Cremation

As society becomes increasingly aware of the environmental impact of traditional end-of-life practices, alternative methods such as aquamation are gaining interest. Also known as alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation is a water-based process that some consider a more sustainable option compared to flame cremation or burial.

Although Inspired Meadows does not currently offer aquamation, we recognise the growing conversation around eco-conscious alternatives to traditional funerals. This article explores what aquamation is, how it works, and how it compares to other end-of-life choices, including natural burial.

What Is Aquamation?

Aquamation is a process that mimics natural decomposition but accelerates it using water and an alkaline solution. The body is placed in a stainless steel vessel, where a mixture of water and alkali (such as potassium hydroxide) gently breaks down soft tissue over several hours. This leaves behind only bone fragments, which are dried and processed into a fine powder similar to cremated remains.

Unlike flame cremation, aquamation does not use direct fire or extreme heat, making it a gentler, water-based alternative. The process is sometimes referred to as "green cremation" due to its reduced environmental impact.

The History and Development of Aquamation

While aquamation might sound like a recent innovation, it was actually patented in 1888 by Amos Herbert Hanson. Originally, the process was developed for disposing of animal remains and later adapted for use in medical research facilities. Over the past few decades, interest in aquamation has grown as more people seek sustainable funeral options. Some high-profile figures, including Nobel Prize-winning scientist Desmond Tutu, chose aquamation as their final disposition method, further increasing public awareness.

How Does Aquamation Work?

Aquamation accelerates a natural process known as hydrolysis, which occurs when a body decomposes in soil over time. Instead of taking years, this method completes the process in a controlled environment within a matter of hours. The key steps include:

1. Placement in the Chamber – The body is placed in a stainless steel chamber filled with a combination of water and an alkaline solution.
2. Gentle Breakdown – The temperature is increased to around 90-150°C, dissolving soft tissues while preserving bones.
3. Completion of the Process – The remaining liquid is sterile and can be safely returned to the environment, while bone fragments are dried and processed into a fine ash.
4. Return of Remains – Families receive the ashes, just as they would with traditional cremation.

Environmental Benefits of Aquamation

One of the key reasons aquamation is gaining traction is its reduced environmental impact. Compared to traditional flame cremation and burial, aquamation is considered a more sustainable alternative.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

• Traditional cremation relies on fossil fuels and emits carbon dioxide, mercury, and other pollutants into the atmosphere.
• Aquamation uses less energy and does not release harmful emissions, making it a cleaner option.

Minimal Impact on Land and Water Resources

• Unlike burial, aquamation does not require land space, embalming fluids, or non-biodegradable materials such as metal caskets.
• The water used in the process is treated and safely reintroduced into the environment.

Sustainable End-of-Life Option

• Aquamation aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious burial choices.
• It provides families with ashes, allowing them to honour their loved one’s memory through meaningful memorials.

If you are interested in environmentally friendly funeral options, you may want to explore eco-conscious burial choices as another sustainable alternative.

How Does Aquamation Compare to Traditional Cremation?

While both aquamation and cremation involve processing remains into ashes, there are notable differences in environmental impact, cost, and public acceptance.

Comparing Aquamation vs. Traditional Cremation

Energy Use

• Aquamation: Low energy consumption
• Traditional Cremation: High energy required for flame combustion

Emissions

• Aquamation: No direct emissions
• Traditional Cremation: CO₂ and mercury released into the air

Processing Time

• Aquamation: 6–8 hours
• Traditional Cremation: 1–2 hours

Final Remains

• Aquamation: Softer, whiter ashes
• Traditional Cremation: Darker, granular ashes

Environmental Impact

• Aquamation: Minimal
• Traditional Cremation: High carbon footprint

Legal and Ethical Considerations of Aquamation

Is Aquamation Legal?

Aquamation is legal in several countries, including parts of the United States, Canada, and Australia. However, in the UK, it is not yet widely available. Legislative discussions are ongoing regarding its regulation and accessibility.

Ethical Considerations

Many people view aquamation as an ethical and respectful way to handle remains due to its environmental benefits. However, some religious and cultural traditions prefer burial or cremation. If you are considering alternative options, it may be worth discussing preferences with family members or religious leaders.

Alternative Eco-Friendly Burial Options

For those seeking an environmentally friendly end-of-life option that is available in the UK, natural burial is a meaningful choice. At Inspired Meadows, we offer natural burial grounds that allow loved ones to rest in a way that supports the local environment.

Benefits of Natural Burial:

• No harmful chemicals – Unlike traditional burials that involve embalming fluids, natural burials allow the body to return to the earth naturally.
• Preserves natural landscapes – Instead of headstones, graves are often marked by trees, flowers, or biodegradable plaques.
• A lasting, green legacy – Choosing a natural burial helps protect and restore local ecosystems.

If you are interested in a peaceful, nature-focused alternative, Inspired Meadows provides beautiful and sustainable burial plots that allow families to create a lasting tribute in harmony with the environment.

Final Thoughts

Aquamation is an intriguing alternative to traditional burial and cremation, offering significant environmental benefits. While it is not yet widely available in the UK, its popularity is growing as more people explore sustainable end-of-life options.

For those seeking an eco-conscious farewell, natural burial remains a practical and meaningful choice. Inspired Meadows is committed to providing families with sustainable burial options that honour both their loved ones and the natural world.

If you would like to learn more about environmentally friendly burial choices, get in touch with our team to explore how Inspired Meadows can help you plan a peaceful, lasting tribute.