Water Cremation: The Environmentally Friendly Service

As the world becomes more aware of the environmental impact of traditional burial and cremation practices, alternative methods of disposition are becoming more popular. One such option is water cremation, also known as bio-cremation, alkaline hydrolysis, or resomation. Cremation services in Denver, CO consider water cremation an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial or fire cremation. It offers families a dignified way to say goodbye to their loved ones. 

Water cremation involves placing the body in a steel chamber filled with water and alkali salts. A controlled chemical and thermal process reduces the body to bone fragments and liquid toner within hours. The bone fragments can then be pulverized and returned to the family or scattered. On the other hand, the liquid byproduct is safely discharged into the municipal sewer system. 

How Long Does Aquamation Take? 

The entire process usually takes around 4-8 hours for humans but can take 18 hours for animals. It depends on the size of the body and the temperature of the solution. From pickup to the return of ashes, the entire process can take up to two weeks. While water cremation is a newer technology, it has grown in popularity due to its environmentally friendly nature. Water cremation uses less energy than fire cremation and does not produce harmful emissions. In addition, the water used in the process can be reused for other purposes, such as watering plants. 

What is the Average Cost of Aquamation? 

Water cremation typically costs between $2,500 and $4,000, making it more affordable than traditional cremation. 

In Which States is Aquamation Available? 

Aquamation is currently legal in 23 states. However, proponents of water cremation face an uphill battle in convincing state legislatures to legalize the process. Western, Great Plains, and Southern states have been more amiable toward water cremation than ones in the Midwest and Northeast. The main obstacle is that many people are unfamiliar with the process and have misconceptions. But with education and awareness, more states will legalize water cremation. 

What Happens to the Liquid Used During the Aquamation Process? 

The liquid used to wash the remaining bone matter is often used as a nutrient solution for plants. And in some cases, it is sent back to the ecosystem via the local wastewater treatment facility. The solution is usually sterile and compromises amino acids, salts, nutrients, sugars, and natural decomposition byproducts. Indeed many people are hesitant to consider water cremation as an option for themselves or their loved ones. However, it has proved to be a gentle and eco-friendly way to return our bodies to the earth. 

Where Do You Take the Cremated Ash? 

The process completes once you receive the ash. The ash can be shared among relatives, placed in an urn, or scattered. Whatever the case, water cremation ensures you send off your loved one in the most sustainable way. 

Losing a loved one is never easy. But determining the most suitable process to say goodbye can be equally confusing. Cremation services in Denver, CO understand that this is a difficult time for you and your family and will be there to help in any way possible.