Water Cremation FAQs
Your questions answered
Choosing a funeral is one of life’s most personal decisions. It’s natural to have questions, especially when considering a new option such as water cremation.
We’ve answered some of the questions we’re most commonly asked. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please get in touch—we’re here to help.
General Questions
What is water cremation?
Water cremation is a gentle alternative to traditional flame cremation. Instead of using fire, it uses warm water and naturally occurring alkaline minerals to accelerate a natural process that returns the body to its natural elements with dignity and respect.
It is also known as alkaline hydrolysis, resomation or aquamation.
Is water cremation the same as resomation?
Yes.
Resomation® is one of the commercial names used to describe water cremation. You may also hear the terms aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis, but they all refer to the same process.
Why is it called water cremation?
The name helps explain the process in simple terms.
Unlike traditional cremation, which uses flame, water cremation uses water, warmth and naturally occurring alkaline minerals to gently accelerate the natural process of decomposition.
The Process
How does water cremation work?
The body is placed into a specially designed vessel where warm water and naturally occurring alkaline minerals gently accelerate a natural process.
At the end of the process, the mineral remains of the bones are carefully dried, processed into a fine white powder and returned to the family as ashes.
How long does water cremation take?
The water cremation process itself usually takes several hours.
Including preparation and the return of the ashes, the overall timescale is similar to that of a traditional cremation.
Is the process respectful?
Absolutely.
Every stage is carried out with the same dignity, compassion and professionalism expected of any funeral service.
The technology may be different, but the care shown to your loved one remains exactly the same.
Ashes
Do you still receive ashes?
Yes.
Families receive the prepared mineral remains following water cremation, just as they would after a traditional cremation.
These can be kept, buried or scattered according to the family’s wishes.
Are the ashes different?
They are generally lighter in colour and finer in texture than ashes following flame cremation.
Some families also notice there is slightly more ash. This is perfectly normal and does not affect the way the ashes can be kept or scattered.
Environmental Questions
Is water cremation environmentally friendly?
Many people choose water cremation because it has the potential to reduce environmental impact.
Compared with traditional flame cremation, it generally:
- Uses less energy.
- Produces lower greenhouse-gas emissions.
- Does not involve combustion.
- Avoids mercury emissions to the atmosphere from dental amalgam.
Aquatorium® is committed to supporting environmental claims with independent evidence wherever possible.
Does water cremation use a lot of water?
Water is an important part of the process, but it is carefully managed within a controlled system.
Following treatment in accordance with environmental regulations, the water is safely managed through approved wastewater systems.
What happens to the water afterwards?
At the end of the process, the water has been sterilised and is managed safely in accordance with environmental regulations.
It is not reused, nor is it discharged directly into rivers or the sea.
Funeral Arrangements
Can I still have a funeral service?
Yes.
Water cremation can be combined with:
- Traditional funeral services.
- Celebration of life ceremonies.
- Memorial services.
- Direct cremation without a ceremony.
The choice is entirely yours.
Can my funeral director arrange water cremation?
Once Aquatorium® services become available, many funeral directors will be able to arrange water cremation through the Aquatorium® Partner Network.
Can I plan ahead?
Yes.
Many people choose to record their funeral wishes in advance, giving their families reassurance and helping ensure their preferred funeral choice is respected.
Legal Questions
Is water cremation legal in the UK?
The legal position varies across the UK.
Scotland has introduced legislation allowing water cremation, while England, Wales and Northern Ireland are continuing to consider future legal frameworks.
Please visit our Is Water Cremation Legal? page for the latest information.
Is water cremation available near me?
Availability will increase as Aquatorium® facilities open across the UK.
If there is not yet a location near you, you can register your postcode and we’ll let you know as services become available.
Aquatorium®
What is an Aquatorium®?
An Aquatorium® is a purpose-designed facility where water cremation is carried out in a peaceful, modern and dignified environment.
Our vision is to create a nationwide network of Aquatorium® locations, giving families greater choice in how they say goodbye.
Why choose Aquatorium®?
At Aquatorium®, we believe families deserve:
- Genuine choice.
- Complete transparency.
- Compassionate care.
- Environmental responsibility.
- Modern funeral facilities designed around dignity and respect.
Every decision we make is guided by these principles.
Still Have a Question?
If you haven’t found the answer you’re looking for, we’d be pleased to help.
Whether you’re planning ahead, arranging a funeral or simply learning more about water cremation, our team is here to provide clear, honest information and compassionate guidance.
Continue Exploring
Learn how water cremation works, why more families are considering this gentle alternative, and where Aquatorium® services will become available.
See How Water Cremation Works →