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Why is Alkaline Hydrolysis Called Green Cremation?
Alkaline hydrolysis (also known as “biocremation”, “green cremation”, or “aquamation”) is often marketed as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional flame-based cremation. It is a chemical process involving water, potassium […]
Alkaline hydrolysis (also known as “biocremation”, “green cremation”, or “aquamation”) is often marketed as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional flame-based cremation. It is a chemical process involving water, potassium hydroxide, and heat to reduce the body to bone fragments and inert liquid. Similar to traditional cremation, ashes are produced in the final outcome.
Alkaline hydrolysis is generally safer for the environment than traditional flame cremation since it offers lower air emissions and no direct fossil fuel use. It may also reduce the use of formaldehyde, which might otherwise leach into the soil and groundwater. Traditional cremation is known to release mercury, carbon dioxide, and other harmful pollutants, which can worsen air pollution and contribute to climate change.
Since alkaline hydrolysis reduces some key environmental concerns, it is considered to be a promising “green” option, but it is not entirely without its own environmental impact. Although it is a flameless process, indirect emissions may occur depending on the energy source used for heating. It requires around 350 gallons of clean water per service, and the liquid effluent produced requires proper treatment before being released into wastewater in order to comply with environmental regulations. Ultimately, the sustainability of alkaline hydrolysis largely depends on associated water and energy use practices.
Sources
“FAQs”. Green Cremation. https://www.greencremation.com/faqs/faqs
“What is Alkaline Hydrolysis?” Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-alkaline-hydrolysis-1131908
