Resomation, or alkaline hydrolysis, is a Water-Based Cremation Alternative with environmental advantages and benefits at the practical level. It uses water and alkali heated under pressure to speed up natural decay without air pollutants and carbon emissions through a much smaller carbon footprint than flame-based cremation.
Instead of traditional cremation, resomation requires less energy, does not produce airborne emissions, and leaves behind a residue that is nutrient-rich for safe burial. It also preserves bone ash so that families can still retain it or scatter it like the old ashes. Resomation is a gentle and sustainable option that meets environmental and respectful values toward the deceased. Be sure to contact the best funeral homes in Oklahoma City OK, for reliable resomation services.
What is Resomation?
Resomation, or alkaline hydrolysis, is a process that uses water, heat, and potassium hydroxide to accelerate the natural decomposition process in a controlled environment. In this method, you place the body in a chamber for hours, which gently dissolves into bone ash and liquid. It is possible to return the residual bone ash to the family as traditional cremation ashes, while the liquid product is sterile and environmentally friendly.
Benefits Of Resomation
Resomation delivers various benefits that answer practical and ethical considerations, making it an appealing option for your end-of-life plans. Here are the primary benefits:
- Environment-Friendly Process
It is much friendlier to the environment compared to traditional cremation. Water-Based Cremation Alternative happens at high temperatures and releases carbon dioxide, while alkaline hydrolysis works at a lesser temperature, using water and alkali instead of combustion. Compared to this, the carbon footprint is low, up to 90%, so it becomes an environmentally friendly option for those who care about the environment.
- Zero Airborne Pollutants
Unlike flame-based cremation, the process does not produce any airborne emissions. Mercury and other pollutants are released into the atmosphere during traditional cremation, but there will be none from resomation. It does not generate smoke or particulate matter, reducing air pollution and destroying the health risks that will arise during traditional cremation. This is particularly important in urban areas where air quality is already a concern.
- Energy Efficiency
The use of energy is much lower compared to the cremation of a body. Here, the process works under the boiling point of a liquid. As a result, energy consumption is lower compared to traditional cremation. This makes it cost-effective, eco-friendly, and a viable alternative in reducing overall impact.
- Non-Toxic Byproducts
The byproduct of resomation is a sterile liquid containing essential nutrients like potassium and sodium that are safe to return to the water system or use in agriculture. Unlike cremation, metals and other toxins are absent in resomation, so it is an environment-friendly process with clean byproducts.
Resomation results in fine bone ash, which you can place in memorials. This aspect of resomation mimics traditional cremation practices but gives families the chance to see their loved one in a private way to pay tribute to a life worthy of celebration.
- Gentle and Humane Process
The water-based method of resomation is gentle and mimics natural decomposition on earth. Most families find the approach comforting because the body does not suffer from flames or high temperatures. Resomation may bring emotional comfort to families who prefer a kinder way of leaving their loved ones.
- Green Burial Standards Compliant
Green burial proponents and organizations accept resomation because it has a low environmental impact. It means a sustainable final disposition that conserves natural resources, produces minimal waste and reduces pollution. People who have embraced sustainable practices often find that resomation is the natural choice for their end-of-life arrangements that align with their values.
How to Ensure a Meaningful Resomation
If you are considering resomation as one of your end-of-life options, here are some practices to make the process respectful and meaningful:
- Communicate Your Wishes: Discuss resomation with your family members and write it in your will or advance directive so that your wishes get respected.
- Consult a Resomation Provider: Discuss the service process and availability from a funeral director or resomation provider.
- Read Environmental Guidelines: Inquire how the liquid byproduct will get handled; this varies by regions, based on environmental concerns relevant to each area.
- Consider Memorial Options: Meaningful ways to use the bone ash or scatter it: scatter in a meaningful place and add to memorial services
- Learn About Local Policies: Resomation is not acceptable in some parts; learn about the policies and legal issues concerning alkaline hydrolysis in your location.
Conclusion
Resomation is a water-based cremation alternative that favors environmental sustainability, compassion, and practicality. Resomation has zero airborne pollutants, less carbon, and nontoxic by-products. This process is gentle in nature, energy efficient, and saves bone ash for families. For those who value their ecological practices, resomation is a meaningful, respectful end-of-life preference that honors the
