Each year in British Columbia, 87% choose to be cremated at the end of their life. Just one flame-based cremation produces 573 lbs of C02, and uses enough electricity and gas to maintain an average home’s energy requirements for 2 weeks! Let’s not forget mercury emissions.
As a result, alkaline hydrolysis, aka aquamation, is an important issue for three reasons:
- to provide more individual end-of-life choices,
- to help lessen climate change effects which we are seeing all around us and
- to prepare for the demographics of baby boomers’ deaths over the next 20 years or so.
Aquamation was chosen by Desmond Tutu. At his request, the Nobel Peace Prize winner’s body underwent aquamation, ”considered to be a greener alternative to cremation,” South Africa’s Anglican Church told CNN.
Since 2012, several funeral directors and supporters have been meeting with Consumer Protection BC as they regulate the Cremation, Interment and Funeral Services Act. Presentations were made, meetings were held, information was submitted and 10 years later, we are still waiting for our province to finally approve this alternative to burial and fire cremation.
Alkaline Hydrolysis exists since 2005 and has been approved by progressive decision-makers in North America, Europe, Mexico, South Africa & Australia, to name a few.
Here in Canada, it is offered to families in Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland/Labrador, and the Northwest Territories. With British Columbia having the highest cremation rate, don’t you think it’s time?
I, the undersigned, respectfully request that alkaline hydrolysis be approved as a choice for British Columbian families when faced with the death of a loved one.
Thank you,
Respectfully submitted,