Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is soon to be introduced in the UK as an alternative method for body disposal. However, there are numerous other unconventional options available worldwide. This article discusses seven alternative methods, ranging from cryomation and plastination to sky burials and body farms, offering a glimpse into the diverse ways individuals can choose to be laid to rest.
1. Cryomation:
Cryomation involves freezing the body using liquid nitrogen to extremely low temperatures. The frozen body is then fragmented and processed into a sterile powder. This eco-conscious alternative to traditional burial or cremation is costly and primarily accessible to the wealthy.
2. Plastination:
Plastination is a process that preserves tissues, organs, and whole bodies for medical and educational purposes. It involves removing water from the body and replacing it with a liquid polymer, which is hardened to preserve the body's structure. Plastination gained attention through the controversial "Body Worlds" exhibition by German anatomist Gunther von Hagens.
3. Sky Burial:
Sky burial, also known as Jhator, is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist ritual. The deceased's body is left on a mountaintop to decompose naturally, providing sustenance to scavengers such as vultures. This practice respects the Buddhist belief that the body is no longer meaningful once the person has died.
4. Body Farm:
A body farm, or human taphonomy facility, is a controlled research facility where donated bodies are left to decompose naturally. Operated by forensic scientists, these facilities help understand decomposition rates and their impact on surrounding vegetation. They provide valuable insights for forensic investigations and are currently established in several countries.
5. Space Burial:
Space burial involves launching a person's cremated remains into space. Companies like Celestis offer memorial spaceflights to honor loved ones by sending their ashes into orbit or on a trajectory away from Earth. It provides a unique way to celebrate a person's life and explore the final frontier.
6. Reef Balls:
Reef balls are artificial structures made from environmentally-friendly materials, incorporating cremated ashes. These structures are placed in bodies of water to create marine habitats and support coral growth. This option allows individuals to contribute to marine conservation efforts even after death.
7. Promession:
Promession is an ecological burial method that freezes the body using liquid nitrogen and then vibrates it into small particles. The remains are placed in a biodegradable coffin and buried shallowly. Over time, microbial activity breaks down the remains, facilitating decomposition and returning the body to the natural ecosystem.
Water cremation is just one of many unique options available for body disposal. Cryomation, plastination, sky burials, body farms, space burial, reef balls, and promession offer individuals alternative ways to approach their final resting place. Each method comes with its own set of considerations, from cultural and religious perspectives to cost and environmental impact. Ultimately, these options reflect the diverse range of beliefs, desires, and values surrounding death and the afterlife.
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