In our world, we continually seek ways to honour the legacy and celebrate the lives of those we have lost. Amidst traditional burial and cremation, a new option has emerged, known as water cremation, which claims to be a greener and more natural way to say our final goodbyes. But how does water cremation work? Let's delve into the process and uncover its environmental impact, potential benefits, and considerations.
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What is Water Cremation?
Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation, or bio-cremation, is said to mimic the body's natural decomposition process. This process involves the use of water and alkali to accelerate the decomposition process. It is seen as an eco-friendly option as it uses less energy and leaves a smaller carbon footprint than traditional flame-based cremation.
The Process of Water Cremation
The body is placed in a pressurised chamber or vessel filled with a solution of 95% water and 5% potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide. The high pressure, along with the thermal action and the alkali solution, breaks down the body into its chemical components over a period of 3 to 4 hours.
What Happens to the Remains?
After the water cremation process, the remains are reduced to bone fragments which are then dried and pulverised into 'ashes'. These ashes can be returned to the family, much like in conventional cremation.
Benefits of Water Cremation
- Eco-Friendly: It uses one-eighth of the energy of traditional cremation and produces fewer carbon emissions. It also doesn't release mercury into the atmosphere.
- Respectful to the Body: Some view it as a gentler process than fire-based cremation, as it gently dissolves the body.
- More Ashes Returned: It yields around 20% more "ashes," which can be important for families wishing to keep or scatter them.
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How Does Water Cremation Work Example:
Pondering her Eco-friendly beliefs, Maria decided to opt for water cremation for her dear late mother. With the funeral director's assistance, they discussed and planned the process. Her mother's body was placed in a special vessel, where the decomposition process began naturally due to the water and alkali solution. Post-process, Maria received more ashes than would have been possible with traditional cremation. For Maria, the comfort of knowing that her mother's passing did not harm the environment immensely helped her cope with her loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is water cremation?
Water cremation, also known as aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis, is a gentle and eco-friendly process that uses a solution of water and potassium hydroxide to accelerate the natural decomposition of the body, breaking it down to its chemical components without burning.
How does the water cremation process work?
The body is placed in a stainless-steel chamber that is then filled with a mixture of water and alkaline chemicals. The temperature and pressure in the chamber are increased, which causes a reaction that breaks down the body's organic materials, leaving only the bones.
Is water cremation an environmentally friendly option?
Yes, water cremation is considered to be a more eco-friendly option compared to traditional cremation or burial. It uses significantly less energy and produces no airborne emissions like carbon dioxide or mercury.
What remains after water cremation?
After the water cremation process, only the skeletal remains are left. These bones are then typically dried and processed into a fine powder, similar to the ashes produced by flame-based cremation.
Is water cremation legal in my area?
The legality of water cremation varies by region. Many states and countries have legalized the process, but it's important to check with local regulations to determine if it's an option in your area.
How long does a water cremation take?
A water cremation typically takes between four to six hours to complete, depending on the equipment and specific process used.
Does water cremation have a smell?
No, water cremation does not produce any smell during the process as the body is contained within a sealed chamber, and all emissions are carefully controlled and filtered.
Can you have a memorial service with water cremation?
Yes, families can choose to have a memorial service before or after the water cremation process, similar to traditional cremation or burial services.
What happens to medical implants during water cremation?
Medical implants are typically unaffected by the water cremation process and are removed from the remains after the process is completed. These can be recycled or disposed of according to local regulations.
How does the cost of water cremation compare to traditional burial or cremation?
The cost of water cremation can vary but is generally comparable to traditional cremation and typically less expensive than a traditional burial, considering the cost of a casket and burial plot.
Is water cremation safe and sanitary?
Yes, water cremation is a safe and sanitary process. The end sterile liquid is safe for the environment and can be responsibly discharged into the sewage system, adhering to local wastewater treatment regulations.
Are there religious objections to water cremation?
Views on water cremation can vary among different religions and cultural groups. Some may have specific preferences for body disposition. It is advisable to consult with religious leaders or family members before deciding on water cremation.
Can you witness the water cremation process?
Many facilities that offer water cremation allow families to be present for the start of the process; however, witnessing the entire procedure is usually not possible due to the length of time it takes.
How is the impact on the environment measured for water cremation?
The environmental impact of water cremation is measured by assessing factors such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and the output of the process. Compared to traditional cremation, water cremation has a significantly lower carbon footprint.
What kind of container can be used for the body during water cremation?
A body placed for water cremation needs to be in a fully biodegradable container, often made from materials like wood or cardboard, which will completely break down during the process.
Can a family receive the remains after water cremation?
Yes, following water cremation, the family can receive the powdered remains of their loved one, which can be kept in an urn, scattered, or handled in various other personal and meaningful ways.
How do I choose a water cremation provider?
To choose a water cremation provider, research and compare local services based on their reputation, costs, transparency about the process, and the options they offer for memorializing your loved one.
Are there different types of water cremation?
While the basic process is similar, some variations in the equipment and specific procedures used can exist between different service providers.
What do I need to prepare for a water cremation?
You'll need to provide the death certificate or other documentation required by local laws, choose a biodegradable container for the body, and make any specific requests for the service or handling of the remains.
How do I know if water cremation is the right choice for my loved one?
Deciding on water cremation involves considering your environmental values, cultural and religious beliefs, the wishes of the deceased, and discussions with family and any other significant parties involved.
What kind of urn is suitable for the remains after water cremation?
Any kind of urn can be used for the remains after water cremation, as long as it is appropriately sized to hold the amount of powdered remains produced. Your provider can offer guidance on selecting an urn.
How do you handle water cremation for someone who was environmentally conscious?
For someone who was environmentally conscious, water cremation offers a way to honor their environmental beliefs through a low-impact method of body disposition, contributing less to pollution and conserving resources.
Can pets undergo water cremation?
Yes, water cremation is an option for pets as well. The process is essentially the same, offering an eco-friendly alternative for the disposition of beloved animals.
Water cremation is paving the road to an eco-conscious way of dealing with life's last stage, allowing us to pay our respects to our loved ones while preserving our planet. If water cremation aligns with your values or interest, sharing this knowledge with your friends and family might inspire them to think differently about after-life choices. Dive deeper into our other guides at Eulogy Assistant, exploring various ways to honour your loved ones.