What Happens to Ashes After They’re Scattered? A Scientific Look
Whether it’s done in a serene forest, along the ocean, or in a favorite national park, the act of scattering represents the final step in returning the body to nature.
But what happens to the cremated remains after they’re scattered? How do ashes interact with the environment, and what role do they play in the ecosystem?
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Understanding Cremation Ashes: What Are They Made Of?
Cremation ashes, often referred to as "cremains," are primarily composed of bone fragments that have been exposed to intense heat during the cremation process, which typically reaches temperatures of around 1,600°F (870°C). The result is a fine, grayish powder that is mostly calcium phosphates, along with trace amounts of other minerals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium. The ashes are typically very alkaline (with a pH level of about 12), which means they can have an effect on the environment when scattered.
How Cremation Ashes Interact with the Environment
Once ashes are scattered, they gradually interact with the environment in a number of ways. How quickly this happens depends on the location, the composition of the soil or water, and the environmental conditions.
Ashes in Soil
When cremated remains are scattered in soil, the minerals they contain—particularly calcium—can contribute to soil enrichment. Over time, the alkaline nature of the ashes can raise the pH of the soil, making it more alkaline. This can have both positive and negative effects on plant life, depending on the existing pH of the soil.
In areas where the soil is acidic, the calcium in the ashes can act as a natural pH balancer, helping plants thrive. However, if the soil is already alkaline, adding ashes may harm certain types of vegetation by making the soil too basic for them to grow. Still, many types of plants, especially wildflowers and grasses, are well adapted to nutrient-rich, slightly alkaline soils, which may actually flourish from the addition of ashes.
Ashes in Water
When cremation ashes are scattered into water—whether it’s a river, lake, or ocean—the high pH of the ashes can affect water chemistry, though the impact is generally minimal if the water is vast enough. In smaller, more contained bodies of water, the ashes could alter the water’s alkalinity, potentially affecting the local aquatic life, particularly species sensitive to pH levels.
However, ashes are unlikely to cause long-term harm in large bodies of water, as they are diluted quickly. In fact, some families choose to scatter ashes in marine or freshwater settings because they believe the water will carry the ashes to new places, symbolizing a continued journey for their loved one.
Ash Scattering in Ecosystems: Contribution or Disruption?
While cremation ashes are often considered harmless, their impact on the environment depends largely on the setting in which they are scattered. Most ecosystems are designed to absorb organic matter and decompose it over time. However, the introduction of cremains, particularly in large quantities, can have a variety of effects:
Wildlife and Soil Health
In forests and other natural ecosystems, cremated remains can break down and contribute to the nutrient cycle. The calcium in the ashes can enrich the soil, providing a source of nutrients for plants and trees. Over time, these minerals can help plants grow, contributing to the regeneration of the local ecosystem.
However, when scattered in very high concentrations, or in sensitive ecosystems, cremains can disrupt the balance. For example, areas with fragile plant species or poor soil conditions may be negatively impacted by the sudden introduction of alkaline substances. That said, in most cases, the effects of scattering ashes in nature are minimal and temporary.
Impact on Flora and Fauna
Many families choose to scatter ashes in national parks, forests, or gardens, believing that the ashes will become part of nature. While this may hold symbolic significance, the reality is that cremated remains are mostly inorganic and do not decompose in the same way that organic matter would. They don’t provide food for wildlife or support the food chain in the same way that other organic materials do. However, some species of plants and fungi may use the minerals found in the ashes to their advantage, especially in nutrient-poor soils.
Are There Any Environmental Risks of Ash Scattering?
The environmental risks of scattering ashes are relatively low, especially when compared to traditional burial methods, which often involve chemicals, embalming fluids, and non-biodegradable materials. However, there are still a few considerations:
Air Quality: If ashes are scattered in large quantities, particularly in enclosed spaces or sensitive habitats, it may temporarily affect the air quality. This is unlikely to be harmful in most cases but could pose a concern if the scattering takes place in highly populated or fragile environments.
Water Pollution: As mentioned, when ashes are scattered in bodies of water, the pH levels may temporarily shift. If this happens in a large body of water, the effects are negligible, but it could impact local aquatic species in smaller, more contained environments. Some parks and nature reserves have specific guidelines for scattering ashes to avoid these concerns.
Protected Areas: National parks and conservation areas typically have specific guidelines in place for scattering ashes. These regulations ensure that natural spaces remain pristine and are protected from potential environmental damage, preserving them for future generations.
Eco-Friendly Ash Scattering: An Environmental Legacy
While the potential impact of scattering ashes is small, it is always a good idea to follow the guidelines provided by the location or park where the ashes are being spread. Many people who choose ash scattering are motivated by environmental considerations, hoping to create an eco-friendly memorial that connects the deceased to nature.
For those seeking the most eco-conscious options, there are a few practices that can reduce the environmental impact of ash scattering:
Biodegradable Urns: These urns break down naturally in the soil or water, further minimizing environmental disruption.
Natural Locations: Choosing to scatter ashes in a protected or conservation area that is already designated for this purpose ensures that the ashes will be properly integrated into the environment without causing harm.
Limit Quantities: Scattering ashes in small quantities or in vast open spaces can help ensure that their impact is minimal and doesn’t overwhelm the ecosystem.
Conclusion: A Peaceful Return to Nature
The scattering of ashes is a deeply personal ritual that can create lasting memories and a meaningful connection to nature. Scientifically, ashes are generally well-integrated into the environment over time, enriching the soil or water in subtle ways. While there are a few considerations to be aware of, the overall environmental impact is minimal, especially when compared to other forms of burial or memorialization.
At Bonaventure, we understand the desire to honor a loved one in nature, and our unaccompanied ash scattering service is designed to offer a respectful, serene way to fulfill this wish. Whether you’re considering a scattering in a national park, a protected beach, or a quiet mountaintop, we are here to handle the logistics, ensuring that your loved one’s final journey contributes to the beauty and serenity of the natural world.
