A new burial method is causing controversy in Germany and other parts of Europe: alkaline hydrolysis, also known as aquamation or water cremation. While proponents praise the method as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial or cremation, critics raise ethical concerns, particularly regarding the disposal of liquid remains via the sewer system, which some describe as state-sponsored cannibalism. Added to this is the worry that the liquid disposed of in this way could revert to the drinking water supply via the sewage system—a prospect many find disturbing. Who would want to drink that unconsciously?
What is alkaline hydrolysis?
During aquamation, the body is placed in a stainless steel pressure vessel containing a heated alkaline solution, usually potassium hydroxide mixed with water. At approximately 160 °C (320 °F), the body's soft tissues completely dissolve within a few hours. What remains is a sterile liquid composed of amino acids, sugars, and minerals, along with bone fragments, which are dried and ground into white ash and then returned to the family.
At the heart of the controversy is the fate of the liquid: In most countries where this method is permitted, it is simply disposed of via wastewater, meaning it can eventually reenter the natural water cycle. This fact raises additional hygienic and psychological questions, particularly regarding drinking water supplies. In a region known for its strong cultural traditions surrounding death and mourning, it raises serious ethical concerns.
Political and religious reactions
The debate in Germany has intensified following media coverage from the US and UK, where this method is becoming increasingly common. While states like California and Minnesota allow aquamation, it is not yet legal for human remains in Germany.
This is not a respectful way to treat a human body, said Bishop Reinhard Mayer of the German Bishops' Conference. Jewish and Muslim organizations also spoke out against it, citing the purity law and respect for the dead as their justification.
Nevertheless, some German politicians are calling for a more open approach. We need to talk about environmentally friendly burial options, said Bundestag member Lena Möller (Green Party). Aquamation saves CO₂, uses fewer resources, and requires less energy than cremation.
Cultural boundaries or technological progress?
Experts point out that much of the resistance may be rooted in cultural discomfort. "We have become accustomed to cremation, in which the body is reduced to ash by fire. However, the dissolution of a body in water triggers emotional and symbolic discomfort," said Dr. Norbert Kempf, a thanatologist at Heidelberg University.
Environmentalists support the method, emphasizing its significantly lower energy consumption and emissions. Unlike cremation, aquamation does not release toxic gases or mercury (from dental fillings) and requires significantly less land than traditional burial plots—a key factor in increasingly overcrowded urban cemeteries.
Is Aquamation coming to Germany?
Some funeral homes in Germany are already showing interest, and pilot projects are underway in the veterinary sector, where alkaline hydrolysis is legal for pets. However, due to ongoing ethical, legal, and hygiene discussions, it may take several years before the procedure is approved for human use.
Nevertheless, public opinion is beginning to change. A recent survey by Infratest dimap found that 43% of Germans under 40 would consider aquamation, provided the environmental benefits are clearly evident and the process is transparent.
Alkaline hydrolysis is at the center of a growing debate in Germany. Between innovation and tradition, environmental responsibility and cultural sensitivity, the country now faces a deeper question: How do we deal with death, and how open are we to redesigning our final farewells?