What Is Aquamation? Alkaline Hydrolysis as a Green Alternative to Cremation
By CRYSTAL BAI •
The short answer: Aquamation (also called water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis) is a gentle, eco-friendly alternative to flame cremation that uses water and alkaline solution to accelerate natural decomposition — producing ashes similar to flame cremation but with a much lower carbon footprint.
What Is Aquamation?
Aquamation — formally called alkaline hydrolysis — is a process that uses a solution of water and potassium hydroxide, heated to approximately 300°F under pressure, to gently break down the body's soft tissue over 4–8 hours. The result is a small amount of liquid effluent (safely returned to the water cycle) and white ash that can be returned to the family, similar to cremation ashes.
Why Aquamation Is Considered "Greener"
Compared to flame cremation, aquamation:
- Uses approximately 90% less energy
- Produces no airborne emissions or greenhouse gases
- Does not burn mercury from dental fillings into the atmosphere
- Uses no formaldehyde
- Produces ashes that are often described as more bone-white and more plentiful than flame cremation ashes
How Aquamation Compares to Other Options
vs. flame cremation: Aquamation is significantly more environmentally friendly and produces a gentler process; ashes are similar but typically more plentiful and whiter.
vs. natural burial: Natural burial returns the body to the earth; aquamation produces ashes that are returned to the family for whatever disposition they choose.
vs. human composting (terramation): Terramation fully composts the body into soil; aquamation produces ashes.
Where Is Aquamation Legal?
As of 2025, aquamation is legal in approximately 30 U.S. states and growing. Check your state's current status with a funeral director or the Cremation Association of North America (CANA).
Famous People Who Chose Aquamation
Archbishop Desmond Tutu chose aquamation, bringing significant global attention to this option. Betty White's remains were also processed via alkaline hydrolysis, further raising its profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is aquamation?
Aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation) uses heated water and alkaline solution to gently break down the body, producing ashes similar to flame cremation but with 90% less energy and no airborne emissions.
Is aquamation better for the environment than cremation?
Yes — aquamation uses approximately 90% less energy than flame cremation, produces no airborne emissions or greenhouse gases, and does not release mercury from dental fillings. It is considered one of the most eco-friendly body disposition options available.
Is aquamation legal in my state?
As of 2025, aquamation is legal in approximately 30 U.S. states. Check with a local funeral director or the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) for current legal status in your state.
What do aquamation ashes look like?
Aquamation ashes are typically whiter and more plentiful than flame cremation ashes. They can be kept in an urn, scattered, buried, or used in any of the same memorial options as flame cremation ashes.
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