“Exploring Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Burials: Are Liquified and Composting Death Practices Truly Green?” | CBC Climate Change News

Welcome! This week, we’re diving into some fresh insights about life, death, and how we can make choices that are kinder to our planet.

Hi, I’m Anand. Recently, a reader brought up medical implants and how they challenge the idea of a green burial. This led me to explore two alternative practices regarding end-of-life choices.

Here’s what we have on the menu:

• How green are liquefied and composted alternatives to traditional burial?
• Floating solar panels show promise for sustainable energy.
• Waste pickers push for larger return deposits—not just for profit.

Green Options for Afterlife: Aquamation and Human Composting

Have you ever heard of aquamation? It’s a method that uses water and other elements to break down the body without emitting carbon. Sam Sieber from Bio-Response Solutions has been in this field for over two decades. She expected families would choose aquamation mainly for its environmental benefits. Surprisingly, she learned many families look for alternatives to cremation, citing personal connections to water as a significant factor. “Dad always loved water,” they say, making aquamation feel more gentle and meaningful.

Aquamation heats water and circulates it around the body, breaking it down faster than traditional cremation, which operates at much higher temperatures. This process uses about **90% less energy** compared to flame cremation. Plus, it leaves behind more ashes and allows for the recovery of medical implants for recycling. As Sieber notes, metals don’t have to be buried forever. They can become valuable again through recycling.

Although aquamation has been available in Canada for over a decade, it’s still not extremely common. Costs can range from **$1,000 to $2,000**, yet notable figures, like Archbishop Desmond Tutu, have chosen this path for its positive environmental impact.

Another intriguing option is human composting by Recompose. CEO Katrina Spade explains that they combine a body with plant material like wood chips. This mix is transformed into rich soil over a few months. It’s legal in 14 U.S. states but remains prohibited in Canada. Clients often choose this option for a connection to nature, envisioning their remains becoming part of a tree or forest—a comforting thought for many.

Environmental scientist Juliette O’Keeffe emphasizes that while these methods are promising, they must be managed carefully to avoid potential risks to sewage systems or lingering illnesses in composted material. More research is necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness in both processes.

As more people seek sustainable practices, individuals are increasingly exploring what happens to their bodies after death. It’s not just about a greener future; it’s about leaving a positive legacy.

The Big Picture: Floating Solar Energy

Now, let’s switch gears to solar energy! A recent project in Bavaria, Germany, launched the first floating solar farm with **vertically mounted panels**. This innovative design allows for minimal lake coverage while maximizing energy output. The project is a game-changer for smaller water bodies and shows how innovation can expand renewable energy options.

Using vertically mounted panels means less surface area is occupied, leaving more room for aquatic life. The panels are designed to produce electricity more efficiently during peak morning and afternoon hours, potentially providing more consistent power to the grid. This initiative demonstrates how technology can contribute to sustainability while balancing multiple environmental factors.

Waste Pickers Advocate for Change

In a push for waste reduction, a group of waste pickers in Vancouver, known as binners, are advocating for the return of deposits on more materials. These individuals collect redeemable items to keep waste out of landfills while earning a living. Sean Miles, director of the Binners’ Project, notes the importance of giving these workers a larger role in waste management.

At a recent event, participants collected over **700,000 disposable coffee cups** — a testament to their dedication and influence in making recycling more prevalent. They argue that if everyday materials were as valuable as bottles or cans, the amount of waste could decrease significantly.

Experts agree that increasing deposit values for various materials can positively impact waste diversion. This can enhance livelihoods for waste pickers while reducing pollution. Binners across North America are sharing best practices and advocating for policy changes, underscoring their integral role in waste management and environmental conservation.

These stories highlight a broader movement toward environmentally responsible choices, not just in life, but in how we approach death and waste. More people are recognizing their impact and searching for ways to make positive changes.

Thanks for reading! If you have thoughts or stories to share, we’d love to hear from you.

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