Around the world, cremation is a widely used funeral method; in the United States, it is thought that 53% of people choose cremation over conventional burial. The possible toxicity of the smoke released during the cremation process, however, has drawn attention. So, is crematorium smoke harmful?
The solution is not obvious. While studies have shown that the quantities of these pollutants are normally much below legal limits and do not constitute a serious health concern, cremation does emit emissions including carbon dioxide, water vapor, and minor amounts of pollutants like nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide.
However, depending on the items being burned, the smoke’s potential toxicity can change. For instance, during the cremation process, mercury that is present in high concentrations in a cadaver due to dental fillings may be released into the atmosphere. Similar to this, if a body has received chemotherapy, the leftover chemicals may likewise be discharged into the atmosphere.
Many crematoriums have introduced methods to minimize emissions and improve efficiency in response to these worries, including the use of afterburners and scrubbers to remove contaminants from the smoke. Additionally, some crematoriums are also providing “green” cremation choices, which use less-emissions-intensive techniques such alkaline hydrolysis or natural burial.
Whether the casket be burned alongside the body when someone chooses cremation is another frequent query. In most cases, the answer is yes, though some crematoriums might permit the use of a flammable substitute, like a cardboard or bamboo coffin. It is also important to keep in mind that any metal components of the coffin, such as handles or screws, will not entirely burn up during the cremation process and must be removed from the ashes afterward.
In conclusion, there aren’t many health dangers associated with cremation smoke, despite the possibility that it contains trace levels of contaminants. Crematoriums have put in place measures to cut emissions and boost efficiency, and there are also other “green” choices available. It is crucial for people to make informed judgments and to inquire about the procedures involved, just like with any funeral custom.