Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or resomation, has been utilized in various countries as a sustainable alternative to traditional cremation methods. The process involves placing the body in a solution of 95% water and 5% alkaline, then heating and pressurizing it for approximately four hours.
After the process is complete, the remains are returned to the family, while the treated water is reintroduced into the water cycle. Christchurch Water Crematorium director, Debbie Richards, expressed her excitement about finally being able to offer water cremation as a more environmentally conscious end-of-life option after years of hard work.
The initiative is a collaboration between Water Cremation Aotearoa and funeral service provider Bell, Lamb and Trotter. Richards highlighted the fact that water cremation produces zero carbon emissions and allows for the recycling of items like pacemakers and implants.
She pointed out that traditional flame cremations can emit 180 to 240kg of carbon, making water cremation a more attractive choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. The service is being offered at a cost of $1350, slightly cheaper than a flame cremation due to the absence of a casket requirement.
Bell, Lamb and Trotter managing director, Andrew Bell, emphasized the significance of this new technology in the funeral industry and predicted that water cremation would appeal to a wide range of clients. With the majority of their clients opting for cremation over burial, Bell believed that water cremation would be well-received.
The water crematorium will be officially opened by Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger at Bell, Lamb and Trotter’s St Asaph St location on Friday, marking a milestone in the evolution of funeral services in New Zealand.
