Cremation FAQs

Electric cremation, sometimes called electric incineration, is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation methods. It is an increasingly popular option in regions such as England, Germany, and the Netherlands. Although it is gaining interest in the United States, the technology is not yet comparable to what is available abroad at this time. It relies solely on the use of electricity for heat generation instead of gas and doesn’t need open flames to achieve the necessary temperatures for cremation. Compared to traditional cremation, electric cremation doesn’t contribute to air pollution since it doesn’t create emissions or produce greenhouse gases. 

The process of electric cremation is similar to traditional cremation in some respects. An electric cremation usually takes around three to four hours, which is comparable to the length of time for a traditional cremation. Additionally, electric cremation still includes the use of a high-powered furnace and a retort. The body of the person who died is placed in the furnace after it has reached an appropriate temperature and then the chamber is closed. During the cremation process, any gases or other substances that are created are filtered through a water treatment process prior to being vented. The water used for the treatment process is also filtered by redirecting it to an effluent treatment plant. 

There are a few other aspects of electric cremation that are environmentally sound in comparison to traditional cremation. Electric cremators can be powered using basic electrical connections such as a three-phase electric outlet. As a low-energy option, they typically only use around 300 kWh of electricity (about one-third of the kWh used by an average household in one month). Many electric cremator models have reporting functionality to further optimize energy usage based on pressure, oxygen, and temperature levels. The reporting functionality can be useful in jurisdictions where crematories are required to report to state environmental protection agencies. 

Sources

“Greening the Burial of the Dead, in Brooklyn”. The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/news/our-local-correspondents/greening-the-burial-of-the-dead-in-brooklyn 

“How Electric Cremation Compares to Other Cremation Services”. https://www.cremation.green/how-electric-cremation-compares-to-other-cremation-services/ 

The use of a casket is not typically required for cremation, but the body of the person who died must be inside a sturdy container that is completely combustible. While there are many regulations pertaining to cremation, there aren’t any specific laws that require caskets. Although crematories may have their own guidelines regarding whether a casket is used, most will accept alternative containers instead of caskets as long as they fit the necessary criteria and don’t include any metal parts. 

Caskets are less commonly used in cremations if the family is opting for a direct cremation instead of including a service with a viewing. Under these circumstances, the family can select a cardboard container that’s specifically designed for the transport and cremation of the body. Some crematoriums are also willing to conduct cremations with a cloth shroud instead of a cardboard container. If the preference is to have a funeral or another service that includes a viewing prior to having a cremation, a combustible casket needs to be selected to ensure that it is compatible with the cremation process. These caskets don’t have a metal finish or body and are typically made of wood, bamboo, wicker, or other materials. Many funeral homes will also provide a rental casket that can be used for the viewing and replaced with a cardboard container afterwards. 

It is important to note that although caskets are not expressly required for cremations, containers are mandatory. In most crematories, bodies need to be contained for the purpose of maintaining occupational health and safety requirements. The use of a container also protects the body of the person who died during the transportation process and protects the facility staff while they are handling the body. Additionally, crematory operators have different licensing requirements compared to funeral and transportation staff, so they are often unable to directly handle the body due to the limitations of their license. Ultimately, the use of a container helps facilitate the cremation process according to these requirements while also ensuring that the family of the person who died has the flexibility of choosing an option aside from the traditional casket. 

Sources

“Common Cremation Misconceptions: You Need a Casket for Cremation”. Direct Cremate. https://www.directcremate.com/common-cremation-misconceptions-you-need-a-casket-for-cremation/ 

“When Do You Need a Coffin For Cremation?” Titan Casket. https://titancasket.com/blogs/funeral-guides-and-more/when-do-you-need-a-coffin-for-cremation 

“Do You Need A Casket For Cremation Services?” Linquist. https://www.lindquistmortuary.com/do-you-need-a-casket-for-cremation-services 

“Why is a Casket Required for Cremation?” Basic Funerals. https://www.basicfunerals.ca/cremation/why-is-a-casket-required-for-cremation