By: Aurélie Vasseur - Content manager
When it comes to our human body, aquamation is a relevant alternative to cremation. Originally from Australia, this practice has been authorized in Quebec since 2015.
This natural process uses the WATER element rather than FIRE. It allows a powerful bond with the environment. Water constitutes 65% of our body. We begin our life in water, in our mother's womb. Why not end it on earth within the same element?
Aquamation and cremation are very similar, but still have important differences detailed below.
The 7 differences:
1. Ecology
In 2023 in Quebec, aquamation is the most eco-responsible option when it comes to disposing of a body. Since compared to that of cremation, the ecological footprint remains minimal.
CO2 emission
- Aquamation: 1 kg
- Cremation: 70 kg
Resources needed
- Aquamation: Water - equivalent to 2 days of human consumption
- Cremation: Natural gas - between 30 and 90 cubic meters
2. Energy
A cremation requires 29 kWh. While the energy used for aquamation is almost zero.
3. Process
Aquamation consists of dissolving human tissues by a technique called alkaline hydrolysis. Contrary to belief, it is not acid, but sodium and potassium that are used.
It's a completely natural process. The decomposition is in fact the same as a burial, but at an accelerated rate.
4. Preparation
Cremation requires a closed and rigid container in which the body are placed: a cremation coffin.
While aquamation allows the body to be in total freedom.
5. Temperature
During a cremation, the oven is heated to around 700°C and ends in just 1.5 hours.
During an aquamation, the body is immersed in a bath at a temperature of 96°C for a period of 12 hours. There is no boiling. This alternative offers a much greater delicacy.
6. Return of the ashes
After a cremation, about 90% of the bones remain in the form large fragments.
After aquamation, 100% of the skeletal remains are recovered.
In both cases, these bones are dusted and the ashes are returned to the family.
7. Cost
The cost of aquamation is less than that of cremation. In addition, it does not require the purchase of a casket or a closed container.
If the delicacy of a return to the earth by the WATER element appeals you, know that it is possible to choose aquamation in your prearrangement. To find out more about this process, do not hesitate to contact one of our advisors at 514-277-7778 or write to us at [email protected]
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