Aquamation, also known as water cremation, alkaline hydrolysis, or bio-cremation, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial. This process uses water, alkali, and heat to accelerate the natural decomposition of the body, leaving behind only bones and a sterile liquid. While aquamation is gaining popularity due to its environmental benefits, its legality varies from country to country, and even within regions of certain countries. In this post, we’ll explore where aquamation is legal, why it’s controversial in some places, and what the future holds for this sustainable practice.
See also:
- Is Aquamation Legal in Canada, By Province
- Is Aquamation Legal in the U.S., by State
- Why is Aquamation Illegal in Some Jurisdictions?
How Aquamation Works
Aquamation mimics the natural process of decomposition that occurs when a body is buried. It involves placing the body in a stainless steel chamber, filling it with a mixture of water and a small amount of alkali (potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide), and applying heat and pressure. Over the course of several hours, the body breaks down into its chemical components, leaving behind only bone fragments and a liquid byproduct that is safe to return to the earth.
The remaining bones are processed into ash, similar to cremated remains, and returned to the family. The sterile liquid is typically disposed of via wastewater treatment or returned to the environment, depending on local regulations.
Why Aquamation is Controversial
Despite its eco-friendly appeal, aquamation has faced opposition in some regions due to cultural, religious, or regulatory concerns. Some people argue that the process of returning human remains to wastewater treatment systems is disrespectful, while others see it as a natural and sustainable choice. Religious perspectives also vary, with some traditions accepting aquamation as a respectful form of body disposition, while others are more hesitant to embrace it.
Regulatory frameworks can also pose challenges. Since aquamation is a relatively new technology, many countries do not yet have specific laws in place to regulate the process. This can lead to delays in legalization as governments and regulatory bodies assess the environmental and ethical implications of the practice.
Where Aquamation is Legal
The legal status of aquamation differs widely across the globe. Below is an overview of countries where aquamation is legal, partially legal, or not yet legal, followed by a chart detailing the legal status by country.
North America
- United States: Aquamation is legal in several states, including California, Florida, Illinois, and Minnesota, among others. The legality varies from state to state, and some regions are still in the process of legalizing it.
- Canada: In Canada, aquamation is legal in several provinces, including Quebec, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. The process is gaining acceptance across the country, with more provinces expected to legalize it in the coming years.
Europe
- United Kingdom: Aquamation is not yet legal in the UK, though there is growing public interest, and legislation could be introduced in the future.
- Spain: Spain has approved the use of aquamation in several regions, but it is not yet available nationwide.
- Norway: Aquamation is legal and available as a body disposition option.
- Netherlands: The Netherlands is considering legalizing aquamation, and the process is currently under review by the government.
- Portugal: Portugal has made aquamation legal in certain regions, although it is not widely available.
Australia and New Zealand
- Australia: Aquamation is legal in several states, including New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria. The practice is growing in popularity, especially among environmentally conscious citizens.
- New Zealand: Aquamation is legal and becoming increasingly common as an alternative to traditional cremation and burial.
Asia
- Japan: Aquamation is not yet legal in Japan, though the country’s high population density and limited burial space have prompted discussions about alternative body disposition methods.
- South Korea: There is no legal framework for aquamation in South Korea, though there is interest in introducing the practice.
- India: Aquamation is not legal in India, where traditional cremation and burial practices dominate.
Africa
- South Africa: Aquamation is legal in some regions of South Africa, and its acceptance is growing, particularly in urban areas.
- Other African Nations: Aquamation is not yet widely available or legalized in most African countries, though environmental concerns are prompting discussions about its future.
Latin America
- Mexico: Aquamation is legal in certain regions of Mexico, though it is not yet widely available.
- Brazil: The process is under review in Brazil, and it could become legal in the near future.
- Argentina: Aquamation is legal in some regions, but like many Latin American countries, it has not been adopted nationwide.
Legal Status of Aquamation by Country
| Country | Legal Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Partially legal | Legal in several states; laws vary by region |
| Canada | Partially legal | Legal in some provinces (e.g., Quebec, Ontario) |
| United Kingdom | Not legal | Public interest is growing, legislation under review |
| Spain | Partially legal | Available in some regions |
| Norway | Legal | Widely available |
| Netherlands | Under review | Consideration for legalization |
| Portugal | Partially legal | Legal in some regions |
| Australia | Legal | Legal in several states (NSW, Queensland, Victoria) |
| New Zealand | Legal | Becoming more common |
| Japan | Not legal | High interest due to burial space limitations |
| South Korea | Not legal | Interest in future legalization |
| India | Not legal | Traditional practices dominate |
| South Africa | Partially legal | Legal in some regions |
| Mexico | Partially legal | Legal in some areas |
| Brazil | Under review | Possible future legalization |
| Argentina | Partially legal | Legal in some regions |
The Future of Aquamation
As awareness of environmental issues grows, more countries are likely to consider legalizing aquamation as a sustainable alternative to traditional cremation and burial. The process consumes significantly less energy than cremation and produces no harmful emissions, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious individuals.
In countries where aquamation is not yet legal, advocacy groups and industry leaders are pushing for its legalization. The process of passing new legislation can take time, but as public interest in aquamation grows, it’s likely that more governments will recognize the environmental benefits of the process and move toward legalization.
Promising eco-friendly alternative
Aquamation is a promising, eco-friendly alternative to traditional body disposition methods, but its legality varies widely around the world. While countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and Norway have embraced aquamation, others are still in the process of reviewing or considering the practice. As environmental concerns continue to influence decisions around death care, it’s likely that aquamation will become more widely accepted and available in the years to come.
