Aquamation, also called water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, uses water, heat, and an alkaline solution instead of flame to reduce a body to bone, which is processed into soft ashes for the family. Other names include flameless cremation, green cremation, and Resomation. For families looking for a gentler, more sustainable option, aquamation offers a respectful alternative to traditional cremation or burial for both people and pets. In this article, we’ll explore how it works, why it’s growing in popularity, and what you need to know when considering it.
How aquamation works
Aquamation is a respectful, simple, and uses significantly less energy than traditional cremation.
The process:
- The body is placed in a sealed stainless steel vessel with a solution of about 95% water and 5% alkali.
- The solution is heated to 200 to 320 degrees Fahrenheit and circulated for several hours.
- Soft tissue dissolves into a sterile liquid of salts, sugars, and amino acids, released to wastewater treatment under local rules.
- The bones are dried, reduced to a fine white powder. The entire process takes about 6-20 hours and the ashes are returned to the family, within 7 to 14 days depending on county and state paperwork.
- Pacemakers and implants do not need to be removed first unless the law requires it.
Aquamation vs. Traditional Cremation
Both return ashes. Aquamation takes longer than flame cremation. Flame creation is also legal in every state, and usually costs less. See our aquamation vs. cremation guide
| Feature | Aquamation | Flame Cremation |
| Process | Water-based (alkaline hydrolysis) | Fire-based (combustion) |
| Emissions | None | CO₂, mercury, other pollutants |
| Energy Use | Low (~90% less) | High |
| Remains Returned | Finely ground bone ash | Finely ground bone ash |
| Environmental Impact | Minimal | Moderate to high |
For people thinking long-term about the environment and legacy, aquamation offers a meaningful alternative.
Where is aquamation legal?
As of September 2026, aquamation for people is legal in 26 states including:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Maine
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wyoming
Pet aquamation follows different rules and is far more widely available.
Why is aquamation illegal in some states?
Elsewhere, the law does not yet list it as an approved way to handle human remains. Objections have included religious concerns about respect for the body and unease about the liquid going to the sewer.
Why families choose aquamation: Water, not flame
A lower footprint. No embalming or casket. Ashes to keep or scatter. The tradeoffs are cost, time, and availability.
- Eco-consciousness – Less energy, fewer emissions, no harmful byproducts.
- Gentle process – The idea of water over flame offers comfort.
- Shared values – For those who align with natural or green burial principles.
- Ashes returned – Families still receive remains for scattering, memorializing, or keeping.
- Peace of mind – The process feels thoughtful and modern, without sacrificing care.
For families considering cremation, every cremation with Better Place is carbon neutral, whether you choose flame cremation or aquamation. So you can rest assured that your choice honors both your loved one and the planet.
Aquamation for Pets
Pet aquamation is the same process, sized for animals, and much easier to find, because pet crematories operate under different rules. Better Place does not offer it. If your pet was aquamated or cremated elsewhere, their ashes can rest with yours at a Memorial Tree, which can hold multiple people and pets. Better Place also offers Pet Tribute Ceremonies to return your pet’s ashes to your tree respectfully.
This process:
- Treats your pet with compassion and care
- Reduces the environmental impact of pet aftercare
- Returns ashes for keepsakes, memorials, or scattering
More vet clinics are partnering with aquamation providers, giving families a compassionate option when it’s time to say goodbye.
What Happens to the Ashes?
Just like with cremation, families receive the remains after aquamation. Aquamation ashes are finely ground bone, usually pure white, and there are about 32% more of them, according to the Cremation Association of North America.
Families can:
- Keep the ashes in an urn or memorial container
- Scatter them in a meaningful place
- Use them in a living tribute like a memorial tree
- Bury them in a natural burial site or memorial forest
The choice is personal. The meaning is lasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is aquamation legal everywhere?
Not yet, but it’s expanding quickly. Check with local providers for availability in your area.
Is it more expensive than cremation?
Usually, yes. At Better Place, aquamation starts at $4,950, compared with $3,495 for flame cremation. See pricing here.
What does aquamated mean?
Someone who has been aquamated was cared for by water cremation instead of flame cremation or burial. The family still receives ashes.
Is aquamation painful?
No. Aquamation happens only after death, so the person feels nothing.
Do I get ashes back?
Yes. You’ll receive cremains, just as with cremation. At Better Place, cremains are returned in a beautiful, sustantainable urn.
Can I plan ahead for aquamation?
Absolutely. You can preplan aquamation just like any other end-of-life service.
Is it really better for the environment?
Yes. It uses less energy, emits no harmful gases, and requires no casket or embalming fluids.
A Kinder Way to Say Goodbye
For those who want their final act to reflect care—for the earth, for family, and for themselves—aquamation offers a quiet, thoughtful choice.
It’s a process rooted in nature, free from fire, and full of meaning. Whether you’re making decisions for a loved one, a pet, or planning ahead for yourself, aquamation is a way to return gently, and give something back in the process.
Better Place offers a Complete Cremation Plan for aquamation that includes ten services: transportation, paperwork and permits, and ashes returned in an urn and much more.
