Composition of Cremated Remains (Human Ashes)
After incineration cremation, human ashes can weigh 3 - 5 pounds depending on bone density.
Presently, "the physical state of cremation ash is predominately bone tissue in granular form, much like sand or a finely ground gravel. The composition is predominately calcium and phosphorus in the form of a highly stable compound known as rock phosphate (Ca3(PO4)2). All of the liquid and nitrogenous material escapes to the atmosphere in the high heat of cremation." Cremated remains are processed at such high temperatures that it makes them insoluble, so they are not in a transferable energy form that can be absorbed by plants.
When families plant a loved ones cremated ashes under a tree, or sprinkle the remains in a backyard garden, the intentions are for the remains to provide nourishment for the local plants and wildlife, theoretically releasing energy back into the natural cycle of life. Sadly, this is a misconception as cremated ashes from incineration, are not in a transferable energy form.
Ashes pose no threat to health or to the environment. In fact, cremated remains from hydro cremation are 100% sterile completely neutralized disease and pathogen free. The disposal of human ashes in rivers or streams has not been proven to negatively impact the environment. Ash scattering ceremonies do not require EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) approval.
If you want to be cremated, which would you choose: hydro cremation or incineration cremation? After cremation, do you wish to be put back into the cycle of life via scattering?
