Discover the potential benefits of water cremations, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burials and cremations. Learn about the process, environmental impact, and global adoption of this innovative method. Explore water cremations with Variety Funerals™ today.

Water cremations have emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional burial and flame-based cremation. Utilising a method known as alkaline hydrolysis, water cremations provide an environmentally friendly option for handling human, and pet remains.

Understanding Water Cremations

Water cremation involves placing the body in a specially designed pressure vessel filled with a mixture of water and potassium hydroxide. The vessel is then heated to approximately 160°C, a process which, under elevated pressure, prevents boiling and effectively breaks down the body into its chemical components. This transformation takes about four to six hours.

The Water Cremation Process

  1. Preparation: The body is placed in a pressure vessel.
  2. Alkaline Hydrolysis: The vessel is filled with water and potassium hydroxide, then heated to 160°C.
  3. Decomposition: Over four to six hours, the body is reduced to a green-brown liquid and soft, porous white bone remains.
  4. Final Steps: The liquid is disposed of, often through the sanitary sewer system or utilized in environmentally friendly ways, such as in gardens. The bones are processed into a white powder, which can be returned to the deceased’s next of kin.

Environmental Benefits

Water cremations use about one-quarter the energy of traditional cremations and produce significantly less carbon dioxide and pollutants. This process is championed by ecological groups for its reduced environmental impact.

Historical Context

The concept of water cremation dates back to 1888 when Amos Herbert Hobson patented it for processing animal carcasses. The first system for human use was installed at the Mayo Clinic in 2005 by Bio-Response Solutions. The process, branded as Resomation by Sandy Sullivan in 2007, has since gained wider acceptance.

Legal and Global Adoption

Water cremations are gaining legal recognition worldwide:

  • Australia: Aquamation is available, with remains used as fertilizer on plantation forests.
  • Belgium: Flanders received ethical approval for resomation in 2021.
  • Canada: Legal in Saskatchewan, Quebec, and Ontario, with the first machine in Quebec operational.
  • Ireland: Became the first EU country to offer water cremation in January 2023.
  • Mexico: Available in Baja California since 2019.
  • Netherlands: Recognized as safe and sustainable, with legislation pending.
  • South Africa: Legal since 2019, introduced by Avbob.
  • United States: Legal in 24 states, with ongoing legislation in others.

Religious Perspectives

Religious acceptance of water cremations varies:

  • Christianity: Mixed views; some denominations accept it, while the Catholic Church in the US opposes it.
  • Judaism: Generally rejects cremation, including water cremation, favouring burial.
  • Islam: Also opposes cremation, advocating for traditional burial.
  • Eastern Religions: Sikhism, Hinduism, and Buddhism prefer traditional cremation.
  • Native Hawaiians: May consider aquamation as it aligns with traditional burial practices.

Water Cremations in the UK

As of July 2023, water cremation is set to become available in the UK. This marks the first new method of body disposition since the 1902 Cremation Act. While initial implementation will be limited, this eco-friendly option is anticipated to grow in availability, although water cremations are not currently available.

Why Choose Water Cremations?

Opting for a water cremation offers numerous potential benefits:

  • Eco-Friendly: Significantly lower carbon footprint and energy use.
  • Respectful: Provides a dignified process for remains.
  • Innovative: Embraces modern, sustainable technology.

Water cremations may be considered an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burials and cremations however adoption of this innovative method has yet to become a reality in the United Kingdom; not withstanding that may water companies have objected to the practise. For these reasons Variety Funerals™ does not currently offer water cremations.