What is Water Cremation?
Funerals in Farnborough
Water cremation, also known as resomation or alkaline hydrolysis, is a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional flame-based cremation. Instead of using fire, it uses water, heat, and alkaline chemicals to break down the body.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
What Happens in a Water Cremation?
The body is placed in a pressurized stainless-steel chamber.
A mixture of 95% water and 5% potassium hydroxide is heated to around 150°C (300°F).
Over about 3–4 hours, the body breaks down into a sterile liquid and bone ash—the liquid is disposed of like wastewater, and the ash is returned to the family, just like with flame cremation.
Pros of Water Cremation
Eco-friendlier: Uses 90% less energy and emits no harmful gases like CO₂ or mercury.
Gentler process: Some people feel it's a softer, more respectful option.
No flame: Important for people with religious or ethical objections to fire cremation.
Cons or Considerations
Not widely available: It's still new and not yet legal or accessible everywhere in the UK.
Regulatory hurdles: Some water companies and local authorities are cautious about the disposal of the sterile liquid.
Cost: Can be more expensive due to limited availability and technology costs.
What’s Left After?
Like traditional cremation, families receive white, fine ash (bone fragments) they can keep, scatter, or bury. The remaining liquid is essentially water and amino acids—completely sterile and safe.
Holmes & Family Funeral Directors, 44 Alexandra Road, Farnborough, Hampshire.
Holmes & Family Funeral Directors are a family run business with funeral homes in Fleet and Farnborough Hampshire. Whilst resomation is not available in the Surrey and Hampshire area, our funeral team can advise on the latest up to date regulations. Please call our office in Funeral Home, North camp, Farnborough for more information.
