Aquamation

If you are interested in both cremation and protecting the environment, we recommend our aquamtion services. Also called water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, this form of cremation does not use flame or high levels of carbon emissions to break down the body.

What is Aquamation?

Aquamation uses water and potassium hydroxide to reduce the body to cremated remains. By using water instead of flame, the cremation process requires less energy and creates fewer emissions (green cremation produces roughly 90% less carbon emissions than traditional flame cremation).

After the process is complete, the cremated remains (or ashes) will be returned to the family, so they can honor and memorialize their loved one in a personalized way.

If you’d like more information about aquamation or the services we offer, give us a call.

Call Now

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does aquamation work?

    In aquamation, gentle water flow, temperature, and alkalinity are used to break down organic materials. Aquamation cremation uses a solution of 95% water and 5% alkali, which is later cleaned and recycled back to the land. The mineral remains are then carefully dried and returned to the family, just like with traditional flame cremation.

  • What makes aquamation environmentally friendly?

    Water-based cremation uses 90% less energy than flame cremation, which means that aquamation has a lower impact on the environment. The process uses less water than a single household in a day, and water will be cleaned and recycled back to the land. Plus, with aquamation, no fossil fuels are burned, and there are no direct emissions of harmful greenhouse gases or mercury.

  • Is aquamation legal?

    Aquamation is legal in many states, including Illinois, although it has yet to be legalized in some states.

  • How long does aquamation take?

    From start to finish, the aquamation process takes about 24 hours.

  • Is aquamation more expensive than traditional cremation?

    No, aquamation costs the same as traditional cremation, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs if you choose aquamation.

  • Do you still get ashes/cremated remains back?

    Yes! In fact, with aquamation, you receive about 20% more ashes than with traditional cremation.

  • What can be done with ashes from aquamation?

    You have the same options with aquamation ashes as you do with any other ashes. You can place the ashes in an urn, scatter them, create memorial keepsakes, or explore many other options!

  • Can I still have a service if I choose aquamation?

    Yes! With aquamation, you still have all the same options as traditional cremation, like having a viewing, a funeral service, or a memorial service. Having a service can help your family begin your grief journey on the right foot, so we encourage you to explore your service options.

You Can Never Go Back and Do it Over

A funeral or memorial service is the last goodbye to your loved one. That’s why it's so important to plan a truly personalized service, and we'll be there take care of every last detail from start to finish.