alkaline hydrolysis

Alkaline hydrolysis is not currently offered to Wisconsin families. However, legislation is currently being reviewed to give Wisconsin families more choice when it comes to memorializing their loved ones. Track the bill for the latest updates.

What is it?

Alkaline Hydrolysis is the scientific name for a water-based method of final disposition that is available for both our human and pet loved ones.It is the same process that occurs as part of nature’s course when a body is laid to rest in the soil. A combination of gentle water flow, temperature, and alkalinity is used to accelerate the breakdown of organic materials. This process converts remains into a liquid and sand-like substance that can be returned to the natural environment via the watershed, using only one-tenth of the energy involved in cremation. The sand-like substance, or ash, is given back to the family. The process leaves 20-30% more remains for families than traditional flame cremation. This technology has been used in the United States for over 30 years. It’s been vetted by the best environmental agencies we have in the nation. 

Where is it currently offered?

Alkaline Hydrolysis is currently an option for families in the following states:

California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Nevada, North Carolina, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Oregon, Vermont, Wyoming, and Utah.

Why do families choose this option?

Families have expressed:

• They prefer a process that does not use fire or flame.
• They prefer receiving 20-30% more of their loved ones' ashes returned to the family.
• They believe this to be a more gentle option than flame-based cremation.
• They value the decreased environmental impact of the process.