Cremation vs. Aquamation: Which Is Better as a Final Choice?

For a long time, cremation has been one of the most widely known choices in Indonesia. It is so common that pet cremation is also practiced. In recent years, however, a new alternative has begun to attract attention: aquamation, also known as water cremation.

Although both aim to return the body to nature in a dignified way, cremation and aquamation use very different methods. The differences include the process used, the impact on the environment, the final result, and the cost and availability of the service.

So what exactly is the difference between cremation and aquamation? Which one is more suitable to choose? This article will discuss it in full so you can better understand both methods.

What Is Aquamation?

Aquamation, known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is a method of breaking down the body using a combination of water, heat, pressure, and an alkaline solution.

Unlike cremation, which uses fire, aquamation uses a natural chemical process that speeds up the breakdown of body tissue.

During the process, the body is broken down into a sterile liquid that is safe for the environment, while the bones remain intact. The bones are then dried and ground into a fine powder, similar to the result of cremation.

This method is considered one of the innovations in the funeral industry because it produces far lower carbon emissions than flame-based cremation.

The Process of Aquamation and Cremation

Here are some differences between cremation and aquamation in terms of their processes:

1. Aquamation

• Placing the Body

The body is placed into a special chamber made of pressure-resistant metal.

• Water and Alkaline Solution

The chamber is filled with water and an alkaline solution with a specific composition.

• Heating

The solution is heated to a temperature much lower than cremation, usually around 90–160°C, under certain pressure so the water does not boil.

• Natural Breakdown

Within a few hours, the soft tissue of the body naturally breaks down into a sterile liquid containing simple organic compounds.

• Bone Processing

The remaining bones are dried and then ground into a fine powder, so the family still receives a final result similar to cremation ashes.

2. Cremation

• Preparing the Body

The body is prepared according to the applicable procedures. Certain items, such as pacemakers or medical devices that could explode when exposed to high temperatures, are removed beforehand.

• Burning Process

The body is placed into a preheated cremation furnace. This process usually takes about 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the body weight and condition.

• Cooling

After burning is complete, the remaining bones are cooled until they reach a safe temperature.

• Bone Grinding

The bone fragments are then processed with special equipment until they become a fine powder known as cremation ashes.

• Handing Over to the Family

The ashes are then placed in an urn or container according to the family's wishes.

Differences Between Aquamation and Cremation

Although both methods produce bone remains in powder form, they have several important differences.

Aspect	Cremation	Aquamation
Method	Uses high-temperature fire to turn the body into ashes.	Uses water, alkaline solution, heat, and pressure to break down body tissue.
Temperature	Very high, around 760–1,150°C.	Much lower, generally around 90–160°C.
Carbon Emissions	Higher, because the burning process produces greenhouse gas emissions.	Lower, so it is considered more environmentally friendly.
Energy Consumption	Requires a considerable amount of energy to maintain the burning temperature.	More efficient because it uses lower temperatures.
Final Result	Ashes derived from ground bone fragments.	Bone powder that is lighter in color after the breakdown and drying process.
Environmental Impact	Produces carbon emissions and requires fuel in the process.	Has a smaller carbon footprint and is seen as a more environmentally friendly alternative.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Aquamation and Cremation

After discussing the differences and definitions, here are some advantages and disadvantages of both methods.

1. Cremation

Advantages

• Already widely known

Cremation is available in many cities, so it is relatively easy to access.

• Fast process

The cremation process is usually completed within one day, so families can quickly proceed with the next farewell rites.

• Does not require a large burial plot

For families living in densely populated areas, cremation is a solution because it does not require a permanent burial site.

Disadvantages

• Produces higher carbon emissions.
• Uses a large amount of energy.
• Not every religion or culture accepts the practice of cremation.

2. Aquamation

Advantages

• More environmentally friendly

Aquamation produces far lower carbon emissions than flame-based cremation.

• More efficient energy use

Because it uses lower temperatures, the energy requirement is also smaller.

• Gentler process

Some people consider aquamation a more natural process because it uses water as the main medium.

Disadvantages

• Not yet widely available.
• Regulations differ from country to country.
• Costs may be higher because the technology is still limited.

What Happens After Cremation or Aquamation?

After either cremation or aquamation, the family receives the remaining bones processed into a fine powder.

Afterwards, the family can choose several options, such as:

• Keeping the ashes at home in an urn.
• Placing them in a columbarium.
• Scattering the ashes according to religious or cultural rules.
• Burying the urn in a family burial site.

These choices are usually adjusted to religious beliefs, family traditions, and the wishes of the deceased during their lifetime.

Which Is More Suitable to Choose?

The answer depends greatly on various factors.

Choose cremation if:

• Cremation facilities are available in your city.
• You want a process that is already commonly practiced.
• You follow a family tradition that has long used cremation.

Choose aquamation if:

• You prioritize a smaller environmental impact.
• You have access to aquamation facilities.
• You want a modern alternative with a lower carbon footprint.

No method is right or wrong. What matters most is choosing a process that fits the family's values, beliefs, and wishes.

Both Cremation and Aquamation Share the Same Goal

Both cremation and aquamation aim to give a final farewell to those who have passed away. Cremation remains the most common choice because it is widely available, while aquamation offers a more environmentally friendly alternative although it is not yet widely adopted.

In times of grief, families naturally want to focus on giving their final respects without being burdened by administrative and technical matters.

For this reason, Kamboja.co.id provides funeral services that help families handle the entire process, from burial arrangements to cremation of the body, professionally and with empathy.

For more information, you can contact Kamboja.co.id directly via WhatsApp at +6282211111415.