Aquamation in Alabama

Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial. In Alabama, aquamation is legal and has become an increasingly popular choice for body disposition. This article explores aquamation in Alabama, including its history, costs, availability, and regulations.

In This Article

What is Aquamation?

Aquamation is a gentle process that uses water, alkali, heat, and pressure to reduce the body to bone ash. It is:

Eco-Friendly: Produces significantly fewer carbon emissions than flame cremation.
Mercury-Free: Avoids releasing harmful toxins like mercury from dental fillings.
Sustainable: Utilizes a water-based system designed for minimal environmental impact.

The process leaves behind sterile liquid and bone ash, which is processed into a fine, white powder and returned to the family.

History of Aquamation in Alabama

Alabama legalized aquamation in 2017 by updating its definition of cremation to include chemical processes like alkaline hydrolysis. Key milestones in its adoption include:

Legislative Action: The updated cremation statutes were part of broader funeral service regulations to modernize disposition options.
Early Providers: Some funeral homes began offering aquamation shortly after legalization, paving the way for its adoption statewide.
Public Awareness: Environmental advocacy and awareness campaigns have helped increase interest in aquamation among Alabama residents.

Costs: Aquamation vs. Cremation

When comparing aquamation and traditional cremation, Alabama residents have several options depending on the level of services they require. Here’s a breakdown:

Aquamation Costs

Here is a summary of aquamation costs in Alabama:

Direct Aquamation: $1,200–$1,500, includes only the aquamation process with no additional services.
Aquamation with Services: $1,600–$2,200, includes memorial or funeral services along with the aquamation process.

Cremation Costs

For comparison, here is a summary of cremation costs in Alabama:

Direct Cremation: $1,500–$1,800, includes only the cremation process without additional services.
Cremation with Services: $2,000–$3,500, includes a funeral or memorial service in addition to cremation.

Factors Influencing Cost

Provider fees, transportation, and additional options (e.g., urns, memorial services) impact pricing.
Direct options are typically less expensive but lack the ceremonial aspects included in full-service packages.

Aquamation often appeals to families seeking a sustainable, cost-effective option while providing similar service packages as cremation.

Average Cost of Aquamation in Alabama

Here is an overview of aquamation and cremation costs in major Alabama cities:

City	Direct Aquamation	Aquamation with Services	Direct Cremation	Cremation with Services
Birmingham	$1,300	$1,800	$1,500	$2,200
Montgomery	$1,200	$1,700	$1,400	$2,000
Mobile	$1,250	$1,900	$1,500	$2,100
Huntsville	$1,400	$2,000	$1,600	$2,300
Tuscaloosa	$1,100	$1,600	$1,200	$1,800

Note: Prices are an average and willvary depending on the provider and selected services. Data is provided as a guideline. Always contact a provider directly to get current pricing.

Who Regulates Aquamation and Funerals in Alabama?

The regulation of aquamation and funeral services in Alabama is overseen by the Alabama Board of Funeral Service. Key responsibilities include:

Licensing Providers: Ensures that funeral homes and aquamation facilities meet state requirements.
Safety Standards: Oversees compliance with health and safety guidelines for body disposition methods.
Environmental Oversight: Ensures proper wastewater treatment and environmental compliance for aquamation facilities.

The Alabama Department of Public Health also monitors public health aspects of funeral services, ensuring safe practices across all disposition methods.