Understanding Aquamation: A Gentle Choice for a Greener World
When it comes to saying goodbye to a beloved pet, many families seek options that reflect their values, including environmental responsibility. While many folks likely already know about aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, it is still quite new for the Fargo region. Aquamation offers a gentle and sustainable alternative to flame-based (traditional) cremation and burial. With its reduced environmental footprint and dignified process, aquamation is quickly becoming a preferred choice for eco-conscious pet owners across the West Fargo, Fargo, and Moorhead area.
What Is Aquamation?
Aquamation is a process that uses warm water, alkaline solutions (we use Potassium Hydroxide - KOH), flow, pressure, and time to gently break-down organic material. This method mimics the natural decomposition that occurs in soil, but it is accelerated in a controlled, environmentally friendly setting. Unlike flame-based cremation, which relies on fossil fuels and releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the air, aquamation produces no harmful emissions. The final remains, which are a soft, light colored ash-like powder, can be returned to the pet’s family for memorialization.
Environmental Benefits of Aquamation
Aquamation’s impact on the environment is significantly less than that of flame-based cremation or burial. The process uses 90% less energy than flame methods and does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions (Cremation Association of North America, 2021). Additionally, aquamation avoids the use of toxic embalming chemicals associated with burial, making it a safer choice for the planet. Aquamation at Eternal Tides uses less water per cycle than the average US household daily usage and requires minimal natural gas to heat the necessary water.
The nutrient-dense and safe wastewater from animal aquamation is filtered and treated before being safely returned to the ecosystem, where it can be reused. This aligns with growing global efforts to conserve resources and minimize waste (National Funeral Directors Association, 2023).
A Compassionate and Thoughtful Choice
For many families, aquamation provides peace of mind knowing that their choice honors both their pet and the environment. By choosing aquamation, pet owners can create a meaningful legacy that reflects their love for their companion while also contributing to a healthier planet. Eternal Tides is proud to offer aquamation as part of our commitment to sustainable and compassionate pet aftercare.
Aquamation represents a shift toward thoughtful, forward-thinking aftercare practices. As awareness of its benefits grows, it is paving the way for a greener, kinder approach to honoring our cherished pets.
References
Cremation Association of North America. (2021). Environmental impact of cremation vs. alkaline hydrolysis. Retrieved from https://www.cremationassociation.org
National Funeral Directors Association. (2023). A guide to eco-friendly aftercare options. Retrieved from https://www.nfda.org
Smith, L. A., & Turner, M. J. (2022). Sustainable innovations in pet aftercare: A growing trend. Journal of Environmental Sustainability, 18(2), 25-35.
