ENCORE: Eco-Friendly Farewells: Water Cremation's Splash in the Death Care Industry

Ever wondered if there's a kinder way to say goodbye to your loved ones? Most of us are aware of burials and cremations, but have you heard of water cremation?  Luke Cripps is a Director at Alluvium Water Cremations, established in 2023 with Director Brendan Cooper to bring a gentle, affordable, and eco-friendly method of final disposition to families in Tasmania, Australia. Luke has worked in the death space both practically and theoretically in Tasmania for the better part of a decade, and has a particular interest in the intersection of end-of-life practices and what it might mean to live well. Built on the founding principles of dignity, transparency, and sustainability, Alluvium Water Cremations are proud to support Tasmanian families to make informed choices around their end-of-life decisions.In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the world of water cremation. Discover how this innovative process is revolutionising the way we approach death care in Australia.Luke takes us on a fascinating journey through the ins and outs of water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis. We explore how this process differs from traditional flame cremation and burial, and why many families are finding comfort in its gentler approach. From the soothing sound of trickling water to the preservation of more remains, water cremation offers a unique and environmentally friendly option for those looking to make mindful choices about their final disposition.But it's not just about the science. Luke shares the challenges of bringing this new technology to Australia, navigating complex regulations, and the surprising reactions from families. We discuss the importance of informed consent in death care and how water cremation is opening up new conversations about choice and dignity in our final moments.Key points from the episode:Water cremation uses water and alkali instead of flame, resulting in a gentler process that many families find comfortingThe process often returns 20-30% more remains to families compared to flame cremationAlluvium Water Cremations is the first fully approved and regulated water cremation service in AustraliaWater cremation can be integrated with traditional funeral services or used as a standalone optionThe environmental impact is significantly lower than traditional cremation or burialLuke emphasises the importance of transparency and informed choice in death careResources mentioned:Alluvium Water Cremations website: www.alluviumwatercremations.com.auRemember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.Take care,CatherineWe'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)Death is hard, make death admin easy with the Critical Info Platform. It’s a simple, secure system that helps you prepare and share your legacy, wishes and personal paperwork.It’s packed with prompts, guides and even a To Do List to help you easily gather critical information for a complete end-of-life plan.Leave behind a legacy, not a mess.Sign up now to your free trial at critical info.com.auNo credit card needed. Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays — free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.No pressure. No expectation.Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” — it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.SUPPORT SERVICESIf you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.Support the showSupport the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22aMusic composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/