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How Do Crematories Minimize Mercury Emissions?
Crematories have been making efforts to reduce emissions through the use of energy-efficient equipment, offering alternative cremation methods, and adhering to the environmental regulations and guidelines set by the states […]
Crematories have been making efforts to reduce emissions through the use of energy-efficient equipment, offering alternative cremation methods, and adhering to the environmental regulations and guidelines set by the states where they are located. It is important to note that the rigor of these regulations varies significantly from state to state, with some enforcing strict emissions and performance standards while others have more general guidelines. Each of these actions helps crematories minimize their carbon footprint and promote a more environmentally friendly and sustainable approach.
Energy-efficient equipment and machines used in the cremation process consume less energy, conserve resources, and help to reduce the release of greenhouse gas emissions. Many crematories also use scrubbing and filtration systems to help neutralize harmful particulate matter released during cremation. Since no one system or machine can completely eliminate or prevent emissions, these components are typically used in combination to address specific concerns, such as mercury or carbon dioxide.
Offering alternative cremation methods is another increasingly popular option to reduce emissions. Methods such as alkaline hydrolysis, electric cremation, and natural organic reduction have been shown to significantly reduce carbon emissions in comparison to traditional cremation. Since the industry and market surrounding cremation alternatives are actively emerging, these methods are not yet accessible in all locations. However, as people continue to become aware of the environmental impact of their final arrangements, the interest in alternatives is likely to grow.
Additionally, all crematories are required to adhere to regulations and guidelines that have been set at the state and federal levels. Regulations typically vary by state. For example, the regulations in Vermont include:
- Prohibition of visible emissions
- Prohibition of odor
- Standards of performance for incinerators
- Collection of emission testing data
- Following specific equipment specifications
In comparison, regulations for crematories in California include providing special notice of the risk of crematory emissions within 1,000 feet of a school, requirements for calculating emissions from equipment, and undergoing a best available control technology (BACT) analysis if crematory equipment emits over 10 pounds of emissions.
Sources
“Death Has A Climate Change Problem”. HuffPost. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/green-death-care-practices-water-cremation-natural-organic-reduction_n_6116c41fe4b0a2603b7db97a
“Alkaline Hydrolysis”. Cremation Association of North America. https://www.cremationassociation.org/alkalinehydrolysis.html
“Resomation”. Resomation: Natural Water Cremation. https://resomation.com/
“The future of cremation: exploring the benefits of electric cremation”. CremaTech. https://www.crematech.nl/electric-cremation/?lang=en
“The Terramation (Human Composting) Process”. Return Home. https://returnhome.com/return-home-process/
“Crematories”. State of Vermont. https://dec.vermont.gov/air-quality/permits/source-categories/crematories
