Alkaline hydrolysis (also known as resomation and aquamation) is an environmentally friendly method of disposal. It is often referred to as ‘fireless cremation’, as the process is similar to that of cremation but uses water instead of fire. The technical term for the process is alkaline hydrolysis.

Resomation/Aqumation is considered to be significantly more environmentally friendly than cremation. Instead of fire, water containing electrolytes is used to transform the body.

Resomation/Aqumation for humans is currently in use or authorised in parts of the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland and South Africa. In many other countries, the process is currently undergoing the regulatory approval process. Approval is expected in the Netherlands in 2026/2027. Pilot projects are already underway in other countries, such as Belgium.

Aquamation/resomation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is listed as an approved alternative treatment method in the relevant EU regulation. A list of all EU member states follows:AustriaBelgiumBulgariaCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkGermanyEstoniaFinlandFranceGreeceCroatiaIrelandItalyLatviaLithuaniaLuxembourgMaltaNetherlandsPolandPortugalRomaniaSlovakiaSloveniaSpainSwedenThe first aquamation/resomation facility for animals and horses, in accordance with the aforementioned EU regulation, was approved in Germany at the dank & treu animal crematorium. Numerous similar facilities are currently undergoing the approval process across Europe.

The duration of the aquamation/resomation process varies between 2 and 20 hours, depending on the method chosen and the equipment used.In the pet sector, however, specific parameters are laid down in the EU Regulation, meaning that the process must last at least three hours.

You can find the exact criteria for the approval of alkaline hydrolysis on our Informationsseite.