Forest Meadows Funeral Home & Cemetery in Gainesville recently announced it is offering water cremation, an alternative to traditional flame cremation.
Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, in a release sent by Forest Meadows, “uses warm water, gentle circulation, and natural alkalinity to return the body to its basic elements—similar to the process that occurs naturally in soil over time.”
Following this process, the remaining bones are dried and reduced to bone-white ashes before they are returned to the family, just as they would be after a traditional cremation.
Celebrations of life, memorial services and other meaningful tributes can still be held, just as they would with traditional cremation services, according to Forest Meadows.
“While recently invested in a new, state‑of‑the‑art flame cremation facility that exceeds all state and federal emissions standards, we recognize that many families are seeking options with an even lower environmental impact,” said Connor Moloney, owner of Forest Meadows Funeral Home & Cemetery, in the release.
Interest in water cremation has grown significantly in recent years, in part because of its environmental advantages.
- Uses 90% percent less energy than traditional cremation.
- Produces zero emissions
- Uses about ~200 gallons LESS water per cremation than the average American household in one day.
- Reduces reliance on concrete, wood, embalming chemicals, and land used in traditional burial
“Our role has always been to listen first and respond with care,” said Moloney. “Water cremation gives families another thoughtful option—one that aligns with environmental values while honoring the traditions and memorial experiences that matter most to them.”
Water cremation is made possible through a new partnership with Gentle Water Cremation.
“Education is a big part of what we do,” said Michelle Montgomery, director of Care & Outreach at Gentle Water Cremation, in the release. “Through partnerships like this one, families can learn about water cremation in a familiar setting and make informed decisions with the funeral professionals they already know and trust.”
For information about water cremation and other services Forest Meadows offers, visit www.forestmeadowsfh.com or contact Moloney at 352-378-2528. Forest Meadows is located at 725 NW 23rd Ave.