In the last chapter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s life, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate and global icon for peace and justice made a decision that continued to reflect his deep moral convictions. Known for his lifelong advocacy for human rights and environmental sustainability, Tutu’s choice of aquamation—also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation—shocked some and inspired others. This post delves into what aquamation is, why Tutu chose this method for his final farewell, and the broader significance of this choice.
What is Aquamation?
Aquamation, scientifically termed as alkaline hydrolysis, is a relatively new and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial. In this process, the body is placed in a pressurized vessel filled with a solution of 95% water and 5% alkali. This mixture is heated to around 160 degrees Celsius (320 degrees Fahrenheit), causing a natural breakdown of the body’s organic matter. Within four to six hours, the body is reduced to a liquid and bone fragments, which are then processed into a fine powder similar to ashes from flame cremation.
The key difference is that aquamation produces significantly less carbon emissions and uses a fraction of the energy required for flame-based cremation. It also does not release harmful pollutants such as mercury, which can be emitted when dental fillings are cremated in traditional processes. Instead, the liquid produced in the aquamation process is sterile and can be safely returned to the earth or used as a bio-nutrient.
Desmond Tutu’s Legacy of Environmental Stewardship
Throughout his life, Archbishop Desmond Tutu remained committed to numerous causes, from the fight against apartheid in South Africa to global issues of justice, peace, and equality. One lesser-known but equally significant commitment of Tutu’s was his advocacy for the environment. In his later years, he became a vocal supporter of climate change awareness and environmental conservation, warning of the catastrophic consequences of neglecting our planet.
His 2014 editorial in The Guardian, titled “We Fought Apartheid; Now Climate Change Is Our Global Enemy,” showed his deep concern for the environment. In it, he urged global leaders to act with urgency to reduce carbon emissions, describing climate change as “the human rights challenge of our time.” His decision to choose aquamation aligns with this deeply held belief in the importance of environmental responsibility.
A Low-Impact Farewell
By opting for aquamation, Desmond Tutu underscored his commitment to a low-impact lifestyle and a sustainable world. Traditional cremation requires the burning of fossil fuels, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Burial, on the other hand, often involves the use of land, non-biodegradable materials, and even toxic chemicals like formaldehyde in the embalming process. Aquamation offers a gentler alternative, using up to 90% less energy than flame cremation and producing none of the airborne pollutants.
In choosing aquamation, Tutu was making a statement that his ethical principles—fighting for justice and protecting the earth—extended beyond life and into death. His final act was an intentional choice to reflect the values he had spent a lifetime advocating.
The Spiritual Dimension of Aquamation
Desmond Tutu was a man of deep faith, rooted in Christian theology but with a progressive and inclusive worldview. While traditional burials have long been the norm in Christian practices, Tutu’s embrace of aquamation reflects an openness to new approaches that align with evolving social and environmental contexts. He saw no contradiction between his Christian faith and choosing aquamation, recognizing that caring for the Earth is a sacred duty.
For Tutu, creation was a gift from God, and preserving it was part of the moral fabric of human life. By choosing a funeral practice that minimizes environmental harm, Tutu sent a message to people of faith: there are ways to reconcile traditional beliefs with the pressing need to protect our planet.
The Impact of Tutu’s Choice on Public Awareness
Desmond Tutu’s decision to be aquamated brought significant attention to this eco-friendly alternative, sparking discussions across South Africa and the world. While aquamation has been legal in some parts of the world for over a decade, it has often remained in the background, overshadowed by traditional cremation and burial practices.
By making this choice public, Tutu sparked curiosity and debate, encouraging more people to consider aquamation as a viable option for their own end-of-life plans. His endorsement of the process acted as a catalyst for greater awareness and acceptance, particularly in regions where aquamation is less known. Given Tutu’s stature, his choice has led to increased inquiries about the process and has inspired others to think about how their death can leave a lighter footprint on the planet.
The Legal and Cultural Landscape of Aquamation
Aquamation is currently legal in several countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and some parts of Europe, though it remains a relatively niche practice. In South Africa, where Tutu passed away, aquamation has gained more attention following his death, although it is still not widely available.
Culturally, there are diverse responses to new funeral practices like aquamation. While traditional views often prioritize burial or cremation, younger generations and environmentally conscious individuals are more open to eco-friendly alternatives. As people increasingly consider the environmental impact of their lifestyles, including their final farewells, aquamation is likely to gain broader acceptance.
A Call to Action for Sustainable Living
Desmond Tutu’s choice of aquamation was not merely a personal decision; it was an invitation for others to reflect on their environmental impact, even in death. In a world grappling with climate change, dwindling natural resources, and increasing pollution, every action toward sustainability counts.
Tutu’s life was one of service, humility, and a relentless fight for justice. His decision to choose aquamation as his final act was in line with his lifelong ethos of reducing harm, fostering peace, and caring for all creation. It challenges each of us to think not only about how we live but also about how we leave the world when we are gone.
In choosing aquamation, Desmond Tutu remains a guiding light, reminding us that our actions matter—even in death. Whether or not aquamation becomes a widespread practice, Tutu’s final choice calls on all of us to consider the ethical implications of our end-of-life plans and to honor the Earth in the process.
