Water cremation = alkaline hydrolysis
Water cremation has many names, including aquamation, flameless cremation, biocremation™, or Resomation™. But regardless of the name, the process remains the same: an alkaline water solution breaking down chemical bonds at the atomic level, in what is known as alkaline hydrolysis.
In the water cremation process, the first step is to place the body in a vessel within the alkaline hydrolysis machine.
The next step is to fill the vessel with an alkaline solution, a mixture of water and alkaline chemicals to submerge the body.
The liquid is then heated, breaking the body down into its chemical components. The level of chemicals and load size will determine the process’s time, with higher levels resulting in faster decomposition rates.
Why is it called water cremation?
When most people think of pet aftercare, the first thing that comes to mind is traditional cremation, which involves incinerating remains until they are reduced to ashes.
Water cremation, however, uses a gentle process of alkaline hydrolysis, where a combination of warm water, alkali, and time accelerates natural decomposition. Instead of fire, this method returns the remains to soft bone fragments that are processed into a fine powder, similar to ashes.
This approach is considered more environmentally friendly, using significantly less energy and producing no airborne emissions compared to flame cremation.
The advantages of water cremation
Traditional cremation consumes large amounts of fossil fuels and releases harmful emissions, including around 45kg of CO₂ per average-sized pet.
By contrast, pet water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis) is a gentle and eco-friendly alternative that:
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Produces only one-tenth of the carbon footprint of traditional cremation.
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Uses up to 85% less energy, and can be fully carbon-neutral with renewable power.
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Returns remains as pure bone fragments instead of fumes or heavy smoke.
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Generates a nutrient-rich liquid byproduct, which can be safely recycled or repurposed.
With thousands of pets honored annually through this method, water cremation provides a sustainable, compassionate choice that reduces environmental impact while ensuring dignity for beloved companions.
Our systems are designed to be efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible—offering families a modern alternative for pet aftercare.