Resomation

A sustainable alternative to cremation

Resomation is a particularly sustainable alternative to cremation. There have been various developments in cremation for some time now. Earlier, there was the rise of electric cremation, where the CO2 emissions are already much lower than a regular oven. Nowadays, there are two alternatives: composting and resomation. With composting, the body is broken down into compost, and with resomation, the body is decomposed by liquid in 3 hours. We are well on our way to being able to provide climate-neutral funerals (without CO2 emissions) in 2030, according to DELA's goal.

Resomation

How exactly does resomation work? Using a special machine, the body is dissolved under pressure in hot water mixed with potassium hydroxide. This machine is smaller than a cremation oven and does not require gas, which is a huge environmental benefit. The body is processed, including clothing and a shroud, just like with cremation. The process takes about 3 hours, and after the treatment, the bones can easily be ground into a powder that is comparable to ash.

The possibilities

Resomation is not yet performed in the Netherlands, as the law does not permit it at this time. However, efforts are being made to change the law. A number of opinion polls have shown that there is indeed interest in it. The Lower House will soon consider the proposal and the report with all the information. In America, the method, led by Resomation Ltd. , has already been approved in twelve states. Several European countries, including Belgium, have now indicated that they also want to start using it.

Potassium hydroxide

It is important to consider the influence of potassium hydroxide in the comparison with other forms of body processing. Resomation itself clearly has lower emissions than cremation, but the production of potassium hydroxide is a process that uses a lot of energy. It is still unclear whether this influence has also been included in the comparisons. In addition, potassium hydroxide is a substance that can be harmful to aquatic life in large quantities. However, this can be remedied by neutralizing the liquid with an acid.