Cremating a loved one is often strategically carried out in a way that creates the smallest possible carbon footprint. This might have been in line with your loved one's wishes, or the option that their family feels is most appropriate. While cremation inevitably results in the release of pollutants into the atmosphere, there are ways to minimise the amount and toxicity of these pollutants. How can this be achieved?
The Use of Formaldehyde
If a funeral or memorial is to be held prior to the cremation, embalming should be avoided. The use of embalming is generally optional and is a means of preserving your loved one's remains if there's to be an extended period between death and cremation (typically to allow time to arrange the funeral service). It's also beneficial in open casket services. However, the formaldehyde used in embalming will vaporise during cremation, releasing these toxic chemicals into the atmosphere.
The Cremation Casket
The composition of the casket also plays a role in cremation's environmental credentials. Opt for a lightweight casket made from recycled wood composite. This is less dense than a traditional casket and doesn't contain varnish or paint, meaning its combustion won't release an excessive amount of noxious chemicals. Many funeral homes also offer so-called shell caskets. These are ornamental caskets for funeral services, which are designed to accommodate a plain container to be cremated (which is then removed, with the shell casket being re-used). This is a useful practice when a traditional funeral is to be held prior to cremation.
Abatement Measures
The minimisation of harmful chemicals goes a long way to making a cremation as environmentally friendly as it can be, and the crematorium's facilities can make a difference. When researching prospective crematoriums, be sure to ask about their abatement measures. These are advanced filtration controls that capture harmful compounds prior to these compounds being released into the atmosphere. This allows noxious chemicals to be secured and safely disposed of.
Water Cremation
Your research of crematoriums should also include looking for any facilities which offer alkaline hydrolysis cremation. This is known as water cremation, which introduces lye and water to provoke a caustic reaction, amplified by heat. Instead of incineration, the remains are slowly dissolved. This requires less fuel (electricity) and results in minimal pollutants. Unfortunately, the process is not widespread and is more expensive than traditional cremations, so it won't necessarily be an option.
The environmental impact of cremation might be the last thing on your mind when a loved one passes away, but if this was important to them or to your family, then there are clear ways to minimise this environmental impact. For more information about cremations, contact a funeral service.
Share14 September 2021
Funerals can be a tricky time, as people are often on edge trying to deal with their grief. Some people also become argumentative when upset, so it can be a good idea to work with the funeral home to work out how to manage the maelstrom of emotions that are going on. It can often be useful to separate certain members of the family or social groups if you know that they are inclined to get aggressive or very loud when very upset. A great funeral home can help you to manage these sorts of issues to help ensure that the funeral runs smoothly.
