Funeral practices are also beginning to adapt to today’s cultural and environmental changes. In that context, a method alternative known as «cremation in water«or alkaline hydrolysis is beginning to gain ground in different countries as a more sustainable option than cremation traditional.
Unlike crematory ovens that use fire, this system uses hot water and a chemical solution to accelerate the natural process of decomposition of the corpse. The technique is already used in several places around the world and was recently legalized in Scotlandbecoming the first region in the United Kingdom to allow it.
How water cremation works
The procedure involves placing the body in a pressurized steel chamber, usually wrapped in a biodegradable shroud. A mixture composed mostly of agua and a small proportion of an alkaline substance, such as potassium hydroxide.
Heat (around 150°C) and pressure are then applied for several hours. This process reproduces in an accelerated manner what occurs naturally during decomposition in the tierrabut within a period of three to four hours.
Upon completion, the organic tissues are completely dissolved and transformed into a sterile liquid. The boneswhich remain as solid waste, are dried and pulverized until obtaining a white powder that is delivered to the family in an urn, similar to the cremation ashes traditional or not so traditional.
The remaining liquid is cooled, neutralized and then removed through the wastewater treatment system.
Cremation in water: why it would have less environmental impact
One of the main arguments in favor of this method is its lower environmental impact. The cremation Traditional cooking requires large amounts of energy to keep ovens at extremely high temperatures and generates emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants.
Alkaline hydrolysis, on the other hand, consumes much less energy and does not produce direct emissions into the air. According to industry estimates, it could reduce the carbon footprint of the funeral process by a significant percentage.
In addition, the system prevents the combustion of materials such as dental fillings or metal elements, which in the cremation conventional can release contaminating compounds.
A method that also generates debate
Despite its environmental advantages, alkaline hydrolysis is not without controversy. Some religious and cultural sectors question the procedure, especially because of the final destination of the liquid resulting from the process.
Religions like judaism and islam prohibit the cremation in general, and they are likely to reject this alternative as well. In the United States, some representatives of the Catholic Church have also expressed criticism, considering that the method could be disrespectful to the human body.
Where is this method used and how much does it cost?
The cremation in water It is already allowed in Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Mexico, South Africa and several states in the United States, among other places. Scotland It recently became the first region in the United Kingdom to legally incorporate it into its funeral system.
As for the price, the cost depends on the country and the service provider. In places where it is already offered, it usually ranges between $1,500 and $5,000, a figure similar to that of a cremation traditional.
