Cremation Emits Harmful Greenhouse Gases: A Hidden Cost of Saying Goodbye

When we lose a beloved pet, we want to honor their memory in a meaningful way. Many families choose flame-based cremation without knowing the environmental costs. One of the most significant—and least discussed—issues is the amount of greenhouse gas released during the cremation process.

Each flame cremation relies on extremely high temperatures, usually generated by burning natural gas or propane. According to research from the Funeral Consumers Alliance (2023), a single pet cremation can emit between 160–190 lbs of CO₂. Multiply that by the millions of pet cremations each year, and the environmental toll becomes clear.

In addition to carbon dioxide, cremation can release harmful substances like mercury and dioxins—byproducts of incinerating soft tissues, dental fillings, and even some medications. These pollutants don’t just disappear—they enter the atmosphere and contribute to air quality issues and climate change (Environmental Protection Agency, 2022).

A more sustainable option? Alkaline hydrolysis, or aquamation. This gentle water-based process uses 90% less energy and reduces carbon emissions by as much as one-tenth compared to flame cremation (Smith, 2023). For families in the Fargo–Moorhead area who care about sustainability, pet aquamation offers a loving goodbye that aligns with eco-conscious values.

At Eternal Tides, we believe saying farewell shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. Let’s honor our pets by leaving a legacy of love—and responsibility.

Sources:

• Environmental Protection Agency. (2022). Air emissions from crematoria.

• Funeral Consumers Alliance. (2023). Cremation and environmental impacts.

• Smith, J. A. (2023). A greener goodbye: Aquamation and sustainable pet aftercare. Journal of Environmental Deathcare, 12(2), 45–52.