Cremation
Cremation is a method of Final Disposition in which a deceased person's body is burned and reduced to an "ash" like substance that's typically white to light gray in color and has a fine, sand-like texture.
The process typically involves placing the body inside a specialized furnace called a Crematory where it is exposed to extremely high temperatures for several hours.
The heat causes organic matter to break down and evaporate, leaving behind only bone fragments and ashes. The bone fragments are then made into a fine powder using a machine called a Cremulator. The amount of remains produced can vary and typically depends on factors like body size and the cremation process used.
Cremated remains can be placed in a container, such as an Urn, and can be kept by Surviving Family members, Buried or Entombed in Cemetery, or Scattered in a meaningful location, depending upon local laws.
Surviving families may choose to have a Funeral or Memorial Service before or after cremation, similar to a traditional burial service. This allows loved ones to gather, pay their respects, and celebrate the life of the deceased.
Cremation is a widely accepted and practiced method of disposition in many cultures and regions, though it may be forbidden by some.
The decision to choose cremation is a personal one, but may also be influenced by financial and environmental factors, since it is most often cheaper than traditional Burial is better for the environment.
Cremation has less environmental impact compared to traditional burial because it doesn't require land for Burial Plots or the use of Embalming chemicals. However, the energy used in the cremation process and emissions from the process can be considerable.
Newer alternatives, like Water Cremation, are gaining popularity and help to reduce the energy and emissions of traditional flame cremation.