Aquamation — also called water cremation, bio-cremation, hydro cremation, or resomation — is an eco-conscious method of final disposition that uses water, heat, and alkalinity instead of flame to transform human remains. It has grown in popularity as families seek greener, less energy-intensive alternatives to traditional burial and flame cremation.
So what exactly is aquamation?
Aquamation is a process scientifically known as alkaline hydrolysis. In a controlled, stainless-steel chamber, the body is surrounded by warm water and an alkaline solution (typically potassium hydroxide). Over several hours, the body’s organic tissues gently break down into basic elements — leaving behind sterile liquid and bone fragments. The bone fragments are then processed into a fine powder that resembles traditional cremated remains.
Aquamation is also known as:
- Water cremation
- Bio-cremation
- Flameless cremation
- Resomation
How Aquamation Works: Step-by-Step Process
- Preparation
- The deceased is respectfully prepared and placed in a container or frame.
- Embalming is optional or not required, depending on state regulations.
- Alkaline Hydrolysis
- The chamber is filled with water and an alkaline agent.
- Heat and pressure are applied to accelerate the natural decomposition process.
- This process takes several hours — often longer than traditional flame cremation.
- Separation
- At completion, soft tissues have dissolved.
- Remaining bone fragments are collected, rinsed, and dried.
- Processing to Ash
- The dried bone fragments are mechanically processed into a fine, ash-like powder.
- These remains are returned to the family in an urn, similar to traditional cremation.
- Disposition Options
- Families may scatter, bury, keep in an urn, or incorporate into memorial art.
Why choose Aquamation as an alternative cremation option?
Environmental Benefits of Aquamation
- Uses significantly less energy than flame cremation.
- Produces no direct air emissions like CO₂, mercury vapor, or particulate matter.
- Alkaline hydrolysis leaves behind a sterile effluent that is often processed safely through wastewater treatment systems.
Respectful, Gentle, & Sustainable Disposition Process
- The process is flameless and often described as more “natural” or gentle.
- Pacemakers and some implants do not need pre-removal, reducing the procedural steps required for flame cremation.
Water Cremation Aligns With Green Planning
- Appeals to families focused on sustainability, conservation, or minimizing their ecological footprint at the end of life.
Aquamation vs. Traditional Cremation: Features & Benefits
The ecological benefits of aquamation can be appreciated by the comparisons below. An additional benefit is that any metal or plastic in the body can be easily retrieved for recycling or reuse. For example, metal hips and knees, pacemakers, and dental fillings.
This is a significant advantage for the healthcare industry, as it enables the use of recycled medical implants at reduced cost.
| Feature | Aquamation | Flame Cremation |
| Emissions | None direct | CO₂, mercury & other emissions |
| Energy Use | Lower | Higher |
| Process | Water-based | Flame-based |
| Implants | May remain | Must be removed |
| Duration | Typically longer | Faster on average |
| Final Remains | Bone ash | Bone ash |
Note: Both processes ultimately produce a sterile remain that can be retained in an urn.
Legal Status & Availability of Water Cremation in the United States
Aquamation is legal in many U.S. states but not yet available everywhere. As of recent compilations, around 20–28 states have authorized the process, and legislative activity continues in others.
Some states with legal aquamation include:
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Maine
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Nevada
- Oregon
- Utah
- Vermont
- Washington
- Wyoming
Note: Legal status and access are separate— while a state may permit aquamation, facilities may not yet be operational locally.
Visit our full State-by-state Guide to Where Aquamation is legal.
Cost Considerations: Flame Cremation vs. Water Cremation
Costs vary widely based on location, provider, and package choices. Generally:
- Aquamation tends to be more expensive than basic flame cremation but still less costly than many traditional burials.
- Typical price ranges can range from $1,500 to $4,000+, depending on service options and provider.
Families should always request a detailed price list from funeral providers and compare options.
To help families who wish to consider water cremation, we have compiled a U.S. directory of aquamation providers and, where available, their prices for water cremation services.
Common Questions about Aquamation / Water Cremation (FAQ)
Many view alkaline hydrolysis processes as gentle and in harmony with natural decomposition. However, “humane” is subjective and rooted in personal values and cultural beliefs.
Yes — individuals can specify aquamation as part of advanced funeral plans or living wills.
The sterile liquid (hydrolysate) is typically processed in wastewater treatment systems in accordance with applicable environmental regulations. In some jurisdictions, it may be used beneficially, but this varies by law.
Yes — viewings, memorial services, and ceremonies can be arranged before the aquamation process itself.
Acceptance varies. Some traditions already accept cremation; others may have reservations. Families should consult spiritual leaders when in doubt. For a process that is environmentally friendly in many ways, that fits with most religious and faith philosophy, we should surely be bringing aquamation or resomation into the mainstream and making it accessible for all those who would prefer this as a ‘green’ funeral option.
It was initially used by the farming industry as the most natural, safe, and environmentally sound method of disposition for animals. It was then introduced by a prominent medical research establishment – the MAYO Clinic, and in 2008 the UK Cremation Society voted to change its constitution to allow it to support aquamation, as they viewed it as a superior means of disposal. It is still in limited use within the funeral industry, although there are predictions that this with change dramatically within the next decade.
Choosing What’s Right For You – Looking to Sustainable Disposition
Aquamation is a modern, ecologically mindful option that fits into today’s evolving funeral landscape. When considering aquamation, ask family members, funeral directors, or end-of-life planners to explain local availability, legal nuances, pricing, and ecological impacts.
Whether choosing traditional burial, flame cremation, water cremation, or other alternative dispositions, the best plan is one that reflects values, needs, and peace of mind.
