When my husband Michael died, I faced decisions I never expected to make. Even small choices felt heavy. Like many people, I knew about burial and cremation. I had never heard of aquamation.
In those early days, I reached out to my friend Heather Spratt, who had also been close to Michael. Heather had recently become a death doula through her practice, One Step Beyond. Her support was steady and grounding. She helped me slow down and reminded me that there was no right way to grieve.
Heather introduced me to Nathan Romagnoli from Eco Funeral. That conversation changed everything. It was the first time I learned about aquamation.
What Is Aquamation?
Aquamation is also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation. It uses water, gentle heat, and an alkaline solution to return the body to natural elements. The outcome is similar to cremation, but the process is different. Once I understood how aquamation worked, it felt right. It aligned with Michael’s values and with my own. It also felt calmer and more intentional.
Aquamation vs. Cremation: Key Differences
While both aquamation and cremation result in ashes that can be kept, scattered, or memorialized, Both aquamation and cremation return ashes to the family. Those ashes can be kept, scattered, or memorialized. The differences lie in how each process works.
Environmental impact
Aquamation uses far less energy than flame cremation. It produces no direct air emissions. Cremation relies on high heat and fossil fuels.
The process itself
Aquamation does not use flame. Many people describe it as gentler and more natural. The process mirrors natural decomposition, but in a controlled setting.
Ashes returned
Aquamation often returns a slightly greater volume of ashes. They are usually lighter in colour. Some families prefer this for keepsakes or ceremonies.
Learning these differences helped me feel confident in my choice.
Compassionate Guidance When It Matters Most
Nathan from Eco Funeral guided me through each step with care. He explained everything clearly and never rushed decisions. That patience mattered. Eco Funeral also helped with required government paperwork. Those tasks can feel overwhelming during grief. Having that support removed a huge burden.
Why I’m Sharing This
Many families do not know aquamation is an option. In grief, people often choose what feels familiar. That does not always mean it feels right. If you are facing end-of-life decisions, take time to learn your options. Ask questions. Choose what aligns with your values. For me, aquamation felt like a respectful way to honour Michael’s life.
Compassionate End-of-Life Support
If you are seeking non-medical end-of-life or grief support, Heather Spratt of One Step Beyond offers death-doula services grounded in presence and advocacy. Heather helped me navigate grief without pressure or judgment. Her support created space to breathe and make decisions with clarity.
For those exploring eco-conscious funeral options, Eco Funeral, led by Nathan Romagnoli, offers aquamation and other green alternatives. Nathan guided me with patience and kindness. His team also supported me through required legal paperwork. Their approach felt calm, respectful, and human.
Learning about end-of-life options often happens during an emotionally heavy time. Compassionate bereavement support can help families feel less alone while navigating these decisions. Many people also benefit from working with a death doula, who can offer guidance, advocacy, and calm presence throughout end-of-life planning.
