FAQs

Green Burial & Aquamation FAQ

Click on the questions below to reveal each respective answer.

  • What is a green burial?

    A green burial is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial that avoids embalming, metal caskets, and concrete vaults. The body is placed in a biodegradable casket or shroud and buried in a natural setting, allowing it to decompose naturally and return to the earth.

  • What is aquamation, and how does it work?

    Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is a water-based cremation process that uses a gentle combination of water, heat, and alkalinity to accelerate the natural decomposition of the body. It is a more sustainable option than flame-based cremation, as it uses less energy and does not release harmful emissions into the atmosphere.

  • How is green burial different from traditional burial?

    Unlike traditional burials, green burials do not use embalming chemicals, metal caskets, or concrete vaults. The goal is to minimize environmental impact, allowing nature to reclaim the body naturally while preserving land and reducing carbon emissions.

  • Can I have a memorial service with a green burial or aquamation?

    Yes! Green burial and aquamation both allow for personalized memorial services, whether at a natural burial site, a funeral home, or a family gathering. Many families choose to incorporate meaningful rituals, biodegradable urns, or tree-planting ceremonies.

  • Is aquamation more eco-friendly than cremation?

    Yes, aquamation is considered significantly more environmentally friendly than traditional cremation. It uses 90% less energy, emits no harmful greenhouse gases, and produces a clean byproduct that can be safely returned to the earth.

  • How much does green burial or aquamation cost?

    Costs vary depending on location and services chosen, but both options tend to be more affordable than traditional burial with embalming and a vault. Green burials often cost less than conventional burials due to the simplicity of the process, and aquamation is typically comparable in price to cremation.

  • Can I pre-plan my green burial or aquamation?

    Absolutely! Pre-planning allows you to make eco-conscious decisions in advance, easing the burden on your loved ones. You can select your preferred burial site or aquamation provider, and even prepay to lock in costs and ensure your wishes are honored.

  • What can I do with the remains after aquamation?

    After aquamation, the remaining ashes (similar to cremation ashes) can be scattered, placed in a biodegradable urn, buried, or used in memorial projects such as tree planting or reef restoration.

  • How can I find a green burial or aquamation provider near me?

    Green burial and aquamation providers are growing in number. We recommend using our location search on our website  (WITH LINK TO SEARCH FUNCTION) or contacting us directly for guidance on finding a provider in your area.