The following is an article about alkaline hydrolysis and the funeral establishment in Escondido, California, which offers this option. It is not an endorsement or recommendation. We at SDMS simply offer it for information as part of our ongoing effort to bring timely and pertinent information to our members.

What Is Aquamation or Alkaline Hydrolysis?

Aqua cremation, also known as water cremation, Aquamation, or alkaline hydrolysis, is an alternative method of final disposition. It is an eco-friendly process that uses a combination of water, gentle agitation, and alkali salts to accelerate the body’s natural breakdown process.

Aqua cremation is gaining popularity as it offers a greener alternative to traditional flame-based cremation. It saves 90% more energy, produces fewer greenhouse gases and harmful emissions, and ensures a gentle and serene process for your loved one’s remains.

The water used in alkaline hydrolysis, also known as water cremation, is a mixture of 95% water and 5% alkali, such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide.
  • Alkalinity: The alkali is a chemical opposite of an acid made from sodium and potassium salts. The same alkalis are used in many household products, such as cosmetics, body washes, and food preparation.
  • Safety: The alkali is safe to handle with standard personal protective equipment.
  • Neutralization: After the process is complete, the alkali is completely neutralized and is no longer present in the water solution.
  • Recycling: The sterile processed water is released for recycling. 

Here are some other things to know about alkaline hydrolysis: 

    • Temperature
      The process can be performed at different temperatures, with lower temperatures taking longer and higher temperatures taking less time.
    • Environmental impact
      Alkaline hydrolysis is considered more environmentally friendly than traditional cremation because it requires less energy and doesn’t produce carbon dioxide emissions on the same scale.
    • Availability
      Alkaline hydrolysis is not available in all 50 states, and even in states where it is legal, there may not be any facilities. Currently, in San Diego County, it is available in Escondido. (9/23/24)

A California licensed Alkaline Hydrolysis (Aquamation) Funeral Establishment

White Rose Aqua Cremation, in Escondido offers an alternative to the traditional flame-based cremation process. Aqua cremation, aquamation, or alkaline hydrolysis involves a gentle, warm water movement that delicately envelops your loved one, providing a serene alternative for their final disposition. Their fully electric process generates zero emissions, making it an environmentally conscious choice.

This eco-friendly approach utilizes the earth’s natural elements of water and alkali salts, eliminating the need for flames. The resulting effluent is sterile and devoid of any remaining DNA or pathogens. The water is responsibly treated in our reclamation plant, before safely returning it to the ecosystem. However, there is water that is being used for this process.

They take pride in being one of California’s licensed Alkaline Hydrolysis (Aquamation) funeral establishments, with the cremation process performed exclusively in San Diego County. Once your loved one is taken into our care they will remain in their care throughout the whole process, meaning your loved one never leaves their care facility, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for your family

Imagine The Impact

Embrace an eco-conscious future with our gentle water-based alternative to traditional cremation.

Imagine the impact of an eco-friendly alternative to flame cremation and burial—a gentle process using water instead of fire, returning 20% more cremated remains to families. With 90% less energy consumption, no emissions, greenhouse gases, or burning of fossil fuels.

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