As more Australians embrace environmentally conscious choices in all aspects of life. Water Cremation has become a popular sustainable alternative to traditional burial and flame cremation. Also known as Alkaline Hydrolysis, Resomation, or Aquamation, this method uses water instead of fire to gently and naturally return the body to the earth.

At Traditional Funerals, serving Burpengary, Redcliffe, Bribie Island and surrounds, we are dedicated to offering meaningful, modern, and eco-friendly funeral services. In partnership with our friends at The Gentle Way, we’re proud to provide this compassionate and environmentally responsible option for families seeking a greener choice for themselves or their loved ones.

Water Cremation is a process that speeds up the body’s natural decomposition by using a combination of water, alkali (such as potassium or sodium hydroxide), heat, and a gentle rocking motion. Unlike flame cremation, which breaks down the body through fire, water cremation uses a chemical reaction within a controlled and sterile environment.

Here’s how the process works:

1. The body is placed in a sealed stainless steel vessel.

2. A mixture of 95% rain water and 5% alkali is added.

3. The vessel is heated to no warmer than 93°.

4. A gentle left to right tiling motion takes place.

5. Over several hours, the body is gently broken down into its natural components. At the end of the process:

● The bone fragments are soft and white, and are dried and processed into a fine, powder-like substance (similar to cremated ashes) that can be returned to the family. ● The remaining liquid is sterile after a five stage filtration process. It is safely discharged into the wastewater system and treated, just like other biological waste.

Environmentally Friendly

Water Cremation consumes up to 90% less energy than flame cremation and produces no greenhouse gases or harmful chemicals, including mercury, airborne toxins, or particulate matter. Additionally, it eliminates the land use and long-term environmental effects that come with traditional burials.

Gentle and Respectful

Many families appreciate that Water Cremation is a gentle, natural process that closely resembles how the body would naturally decompose in soil, only it happens more quickly and within carefully controlled conditions.

Sustainable Byproducts

The sterile liquid byproduct is safe, odorless, and contains no human DNA. It is treated through standard wastewater systems, ensuring it is non-toxic and environmentally neutral.

While costs may vary based on location and the services selected, water cremation is typically comparable in price to flame cremation and generally more affordable than burial, which often includes expenses for a plot, casket, and ongoing maintenance.

At Traditional Funerals, we are committed to offering meaningful, modern, and environmentally conscious end-of-life choices. For families seeking a natural and eco-friendly farewell for themselves or their loved ones, this innovative service reflects a growing shift towards greener funeral options.