Aquamation vs. Cremation: What's the Difference?
Understanding the eco-friendly alternative to traditional flame cremation and why more families are choosing water-based cremation.
What is Aquamation?
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is a gentle, eco-friendly alternative to flame-based cremation. Instead of using fire, aquamation uses water, alkaline solution, heat, and pressure to accelerate the natural decomposition process. The result is the same as traditional cremation—ashes that can be returned to the family—but with a significantly smaller environmental footprint.
Aquamation
- 90% less carbon footprint
- Uses water and alkaline
- Gentle process
- 20% more ashes returned
Cremation
- Higher carbon emissions
- Uses flame (1400-1800°F)
- Traditional method
- Widely available
Environmental Impact
One of the primary reasons families choose aquamation is its significantly lower environmental impact. Traditional flame cremation releases greenhouse gases, mercury from dental fillings, and other pollutants into the atmosphere. Aquamation produces 90% less carbon dioxide and uses one-eighth the energy of flame cremation.
The Aquamation Process
Step 1: Preparation
The body is placed in a stainless steel vessel filled with water and alkaline solution.
Step 2: Gentle Process
The vessel is heated to around 200°F and gentle pressure is applied, accelerating natural decomposition.
Step 3: Completion
After 4-6 hours, only bone minerals remain. These are processed into a fine powder—the ashes returned to the family.
Is Aquamation Right for You?
Aquamation is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious individuals and families who want a gentler, more sustainable alternative to flame cremation. The process is legal in Nevada and growing in popularity across the United States. Many people appreciate that aquamation more closely mimics the natural decomposition process that would occur in the earth.