Alkaline Hydrolysis
Alkaline Hydrolysis, also known as Aqumation, Resomation, Flameless Cremation, Biocremation or Water Cremation. It is an environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional burial and cremation practices. The process of aquamation varies depending on the manufacturer and vessel used [1]. Alkaline Hydrolysis is legal in the UK.
The general principle behind it involves using a chemical process known as alkaline hydrolysis to speed up the natural decomposition process [1]. Resomation Ltd., is the primary manufacturer of the aquamation process in the UK. It has a manufacturing plant located in Glasgow. Their offices are located in Leeds. Even though the process of aquamation is relatively new, it has been found to be significantly better for the environment than other forms of corpse disposal [1].
Alkaline Hydrolysis an ECO solution
The introduction of Alkaline Hydrolysis in the UK would significantly reduce pollution currently caused by the funeral industry [1]. The process of aquamation requires about 1500 L of water per body, which is a major concern for environmental impact [1]. However, compared to an individual's daily water consumption, the volume of water used in resomation is not so significant [1]. Additionally, concerns have emerged regarding the environmental credentials of flame cremation as a method of disposal. Resomation offers a similar outcome for much less impact on the environment [1][2].
Resomation has a carbon footprint that is 35% less than cremation. The process produces no airborne emissions [1]. Resomation significantly reduces the negative impact the body disposal has on the environment compared with traditional burial and cremation [1]. Biodegradable coffins or shrouds made from materials such as silk or wool are used in the resomation process. This further reduces the environmental impact of the process, which does not allow for non-biodegradable coffins or shrouds [2].
Proponents of resomation argue that it offers a more environmentally sustainable alternative to cremation [1].
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SOURCES
1. Religions | Free Full-Text | Dying to Go Green: The Introduction of Resomation in the United Kingdom.https://www.mdpi.com/981224
2. Forensic Sciences | Free Full-Text | Preliminary Taphonomical Comparison of the Decomposition Process in Simple Burials, Traditional Tombs and Aerated Tombs in an Urban Cemetery in Northern Italy.https://www.mdpi.com/1732348
LINKS
Resomation UK
Website: https://resomation.com/our-funeral-partners/what-is-alkaline-hydrolysis/
Wikipedia
Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alkaline_hydrolysis_(body_disposal)