Cremation Association of North America

What is Cremation and Why is it Gaining Popularity?

Cremation is a process that reduces the body to its basic elements through high-temperature burning, leaving behind a residue of ashes, or cremated remains. This ancient practice has been around for thousands of years, but it's only recently gained mainstream acceptance in North America.

So, why are more people choosing cremation over traditional burial? The reasons are multifaceted. For one, cremation is a more environmentally friendly option, as it doesn't require the use of embalming fluids, caskets, or burial plots. It's also a cost-effective choice, with prices significantly lower than those of traditional funerals. Additionally, cremation offers more flexibility in terms of memorialization, allowing families to create personalized and meaningful tributes to their loved ones.

The History of Cremation: A Journey Through Time

Cremation has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. From ancient Greece and Rome to modern-day North America, cremation has evolved significantly over time, shaped by cultural, religious, and societal influences.

In ancient Greece, cremation was seen as a way to purify the body and release the soul from its earthly confines. The practice was also adopted by the Romans, who built elaborate crematoria to honor their dead. Fast forward to the 19th century, when cremation began to gain popularity in North America, driven in part by the growing urbanization and the need for more efficient and sanitary ways to dispose of the dead.

The Cremation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

While the thought of cremation may seem daunting, the process itself is relatively straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand what happens during cremation:

• Preparation: The body is prepared for cremation, which may include washing, dressing, and cosmeticizing the deceased.
• Identification: The body is identified and verified to ensure that the correct individual is being cremated.
• Cremation Chamber: The body is placed in a cremation chamber, where it is exposed to high temperatures (typically between 1400°C to 1800°C) for a period of 1-2 hours.
• Cooling and Processing: The cremated remains are cooled and processed into a fine powder, known as cremated remains or ashes.
• The cremated remains are returned to the family, who can then choose to bury, scatter, or keep them in an urn.

Types of Cremation: Understanding Your Options

While traditional cremation is the most common type, there are several other options to consider, each with its own unique benefits and characteristics.

• Traditional Cremation: The most common type of cremation, where the body is cremated in a traditional cremation chamber.
• Green Cremation: A more environmentally friendly option that uses a water-based process to break down the body.
• Alkaline Hydrolysis: A process that uses a solution of water and alkali to break down the body, resulting in a sterile, bone-ash remains.
• Resomation: A process that uses a combination of water and alkali to break down the body, resulting in a sterile, bone-ash remains.

Cremation and Funeral Planning: What You Need to Know

Planning a funeral or memorial service can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to cremation. Here are some key things to consider when planning a cremation service:

• Choosing a Cremation Provider: Research and select a reputable cremation provider that meets your needs and budget.
• Types of Services: Decide on the type of service you want, such as a traditional funeral, memorial service, or celebration of life.
• Urns and Containers: Select an urn or container that meets your needs and budget, and consider any local regulations or restrictions.
• Scattering or Burying Ashes: Decide on a final resting place for the cremated remains, such as scattering in a special location or burying in a cemetery.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

Losing a loved one can be a difficult and emotional experience. That's why it's essential to have access to resources and community support to help you navigate the grieving process.

• Cremation Association of North America (CANA): A professional organization that provides education, resources, and support for cremation professionals and families.
• International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA): A trade association that provides education, resources, and support for death care professionals.
• Grief Support Groups: Local and online support groups that provide a safe space to share your feelings and connect with others who have experienced a similar loss.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

Here are some frequently asked questions about cremation, answered by our experts:

1. Is cremation a safe process?

Yes, cremation is a safe process that is regulated by state and local authorities to ensure that it is performed in a dignified and respectful manner.

2. Can I still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation?

Absolutely! Cremation offers more flexibility in terms of memorialization, allowing you to create a personalized and meaningful tribute to your loved one.

3. What happens to the ashes after cremation?

The ashes are returned to the family, who can then choose to bury, scatter, or keep them in an urn.

4. Is cremation more environmentally friendly than traditional burial?

Yes, cremation is a more environmentally friendly option than traditional burial, as it doesn't require the use of embalming fluids, caskets, or burial plots.

5. Can I pre-plan my cremation?

Yes, you can pre-plan your cremation by making arrangements with a cremation provider and paying for the services in advance.