Did you know that you have other options on what to do with your remains other than the standard burial or cremation? Have you heard of recomposition? What about aquamation? While traditional burial practices involve embalming fluids that pollute ground water, or cremation, which involves the emission of thousands of tons of carbon gases annually, recomposition and aquamation are environmentally responsible alternatives and cause less pollution.
Recomposition (aka, "natural organic reduction" or "human composting") converts human remains into soil over the course of several days. More information and other resources can be found through People’s Memorial Association, a non-profit funeral education and advocacy organization. Learn more at their website: https://peoplesmemorial.org/resources/green_options.html.
Aquamation (aka, "alkaline hydrolysis" or "water cremation") is a process that uses water, heat, pressure, and alkaline chemicals to accelerate the decomposition process of human remains in a matter of hours. The bones that remain after the aquamation process are then turned into ash. This process uses a fraction of the energy traditional cremation does. Additionally, if you are looking for a eco-conscious way to honor a beloved cat, dog, or snake, aquamation services are available for pets of all sizes at Resting Waters in West Seattle: https://restingwaters.com/.
Whichever option you choose, please remember to communicate your wishes to your family and Agents. If Rehberg Law Group has assisted you with your estate plan, your Estate Planning notebook contains a section titled “Burial and Funeral Instructions” which has forms available to note your requests and wishes. It is suggested you review this information, along with your estate planning documents, every four to six years.
If you have questions or would like to update your estate planning documents, please call Rehberg Law Group at 206.246.8772 to schedule an appointment.
Comments