The legality of alkaline hydrolysis, often marketed as aquamation or resomation, varies significantly across jurisdictions. This method of body disposition involves using an alkaline solution to accelerate the natural decomposition process. The primary reason for legal challenges stems from differing interpretations of existing laws regarding burial, cremation, and the definition of what constitutes acceptable methods for handling human remains. In some regions, the process does not neatly fit into pre-existing legal frameworks, leading to regulatory uncertainty and, in some cases, outright prohibition.
The perceived benefits of alkaline hydrolysis include reduced environmental impact compared to traditional cremation, as it uses less energy and emits fewer greenhouse gases. Furthermore, some find it to be a gentler and more respectful alternative to flame-based cremation. Despite these perceived advantages and increasing public interest, legal barriers remain. Concerns often relate to the chemical composition of the effluent produced during the process and its potential impact on wastewater treatment systems, as well as public perception and acceptance of a method that differs substantially from traditional practices.
