Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is an alternative to traditional cremation that has been gaining popularity, particularly among environmentally conscious consumers. With its lower carbon footprint, fewer pollutants, and reduced energy consumption compared to flame-based cremation, aquamation presents a greener option. This article explores the rise of aquamation, its adoption in the funeral industry, and the factors driving its growth.
What is Aquamation?
Aquamation is a water-based process that breaks down the body using a combination of water, heat, and an alkaline solution, typically potassium hydroxide. Unlike flame-based cremation, which relies on combustion, aquamation mimics the natural decomposition process, reducing the body to bone fragments that are later pulverized into ashes.
Comparison of Aquamation vs. Traditional Cremation:
| Factor | Aquamation | Traditional Cremation |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Use | 90% less energy than cremation | High energy required for combustion |
| Emissions | No air pollution or mercury release | Releases CO2 and mercury (from fillings) |
| Time Required | 6-8 hours | 1-3 hours |
| Environmental Impact | Minimal impact | Higher carbon emissions |
| Cost | $1,500 – $3,000 | $1,000 – $4,000 |
Current Legal Status
Aquamation is currently legal in 28 U.S. states and several countries, including Canada and Australia. However, it remains illegal in some regions due to regulatory challenges and public misconceptions about the process. States such as California, Florida, and Oregon have embraced aquamation, with efforts underway to expand its availability to other states.
U.S. States Where Aquamation is Legal:
| State | Year Legalized |
|---|---|
| Florida | 2010 |
| California | 2020 |
| Minnesota | 2011 |
| Oregon | 2011 |
| Washington | 2019 |
| Illinois | 2022 |
Aquamation Industry Statistics
Market Growth:
The aquamation industry has experienced significant growth over the past decade, with funeral homes and crematoriums increasingly offering the service. According to the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), aquamation currently accounts for approximately 2% of all cremations in the U.S., but this number is expected to grow as more states legalize the process.
Adoption Rates by Region:
- California: In 2023, 5% of cremations were done via aquamation.
- Florida: 7% of cremations in 2023 used aquamation, driven by its early legalization and public awareness campaigns.
- Canada: As of 2022, aquamation accounted for 3% of cremations.
| Region | Percentage of Cremations Using Aquamation (2023) |
|---|---|
| California | 5% |
| Florida | 7% |
| Canada | 3% |
| National Average (U.S.) | 2% |
Future Projections:
Aquamation is forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% between 2024 and 2030, according to Funeral Service Research. As more consumers become aware of its environmental benefits, the demand is expected to rise, with industry experts predicting it could account for 10% of cremations by 2035.
Factors Driving Popularity
Environmental Concerns:
A major factor driving the popularity of aquamation is its reduced environmental impact. Traditional cremation emits approximately 534 pounds of carbon dioxide per body, whereas aquamation uses less energy and produces no harmful emissions. Additionally, aquamation avoids the release of mercury from dental fillings, a significant pollutant in traditional cremation processes.
Cost Comparison:
While aquamation is often comparable in price to flame-based cremation, many funeral homes report that the cost can be lower, especially when factoring in long-term energy savings. On average, direct aquamation costs between $1,500 and $3,000, compared to traditional cremation costs that range from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on services included.
| Service Type | Aquamation | Traditional Cremation |
|---|---|---|
| Direct (No Service) | $1,500 – $2,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| With Memorial Service | $2,500 – $3,000 | $2,500 – $4,000 |
Cultural Shifts:
Younger generations are showing a preference for green funerals, with 72% of millennials and 65% of Gen Xers expressing interest in eco-friendly burial options, according to a 2023 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) survey. As awareness of aquamation grows, it is expected to become a preferred choice for those who prioritize sustainability.
Religious Acceptance:
Although aquamation is not universally accepted by all religious groups, some denominations have embraced it as a viable option. The Roman Catholic Church, for example, has accepted cremation but has not officially ruled on aquamation, while other religious groups, such as certain Protestant denominations, are open to the practice. However, Jewish and Muslim traditions typically prefer burial and are less likely to adopt aquamation.
Challenges to Wider Adoption
Public Awareness:
One of the main barriers to wider adoption of aquamation is a lack of public knowledge. Many consumers are still unfamiliar with the process, and misconceptions persist, such as concerns about the use of chemicals. According to a 2023 CANA report, only 24% of Americans are familiar with aquamation, compared to 91% awareness of traditional cremation.
| Awareness Levels | Percentage of Respondents |
|---|---|
| Aware of Aquamation | 24% |
| Aware of Traditional Cremation | 91% |
Limited Infrastructure:
Another challenge is the availability of infrastructure for aquamation. While the number of funeral homes offering aquamation is growing, it still remains relatively limited. Many funeral homes require significant investments in specialized equipment, which can cost upwards of $200,000. This limits its immediate widespread availability, particularly in rural areas where funeral homes may not have the resources to install the necessary systems.
Regulatory Barriers:
Although legal in many states, the process of getting aquamation approved is complex, with ongoing debates about its safety and environmental impact. Some legislators express concerns about the disposal of liquid byproducts, even though studies show that the resulting effluent is safe and can be treated in wastewater systems. Funeral industry advocates continue to push for broader acceptance, citing its environmental benefits.
See also: 50 Questions Answered About Aquamation
