Research shows readily biodegradable residual liquid without human DNA
The first test aquamations in Pontes’s pilot project have produced promising results. The University of Antwerp examined the residual liquid remaining after aquamation and established that it is readily biodegradable. Also, no human DNA was detected in the residual liquid. The pilot project thereby provides an important initial scientific basis for aquamation as a potential additional funeral method in Flanders.
Aquamation is a new funeral technique in which the body is not buried or cremated, but broken down using water and alkaline hydrolysis in a closed metal cylinder. What remains after the process are bone remains, which, as in cremation, are ground into ashes and can be given to the next of kin in an urn.
The test aquamations took place at Pontes in Wilrijk, under the supervision of experts from the Scottish company Resomation, which builds the aquamation equipment. “These initial results are important, because they help us provide a scientific basis for aquamation,” says Tom Wustenberghs, Managing Director of Pontes. “For us, a new funeral method is only possible if it can be carried out correctly, respectfully and responsibly. That is why we want to carefully examine every part of the process.”
Residual liquid readily biodegradable
An important focus of the pilot project is the composition and destination of the residual liquid that remains after aquamation. “The data demonstrate that the residual liquid is readily biodegradable,” says researcher Koen Goossens from the University of Antwerp. “The results show very favourable values. For several parameters, the measurements are below the detection limit, indicating excellent biodegradability.”
Aquafin also welcomes the initial results. “The values from the research look promising,” says R&D Manager Birgit De Bock. “Based on these initial data, it is safe to discharge the residual liquid to a wastewater treatment plant. The wastewater is readily biodegradable. These first results are also reassuring with a view to the stricter European wastewater treatment standards, which will be translated to the Flemish context in the coming years.”
In addition, no human DNA was detected in the residual liquid. “As expected, all human DNA is fully broken down during the aquamation process,” says Professor Paul Herijgers from KU Leuven. “We assume this will also be the case in the next test aquamations.” Wustenberghs adds: “This is also important from a societal point of view. After aquamation, only the bone remains are left, which are given to the next of kin in the form of ashes.”
Further analyses to follow
The initial results are positive but not yet final. Additional test aquamations will take place in the coming months. This will enable Pontes and the involved partners to determine whether the initial positive findings are confirmed across a broader series of tests. The report on these test aquamations is expected in the autumn so that the final scientific report can be completed later this year.
This project is a collaboration between Pontes, KU Leuven, UAntwerpen, VITO, VMM, Aquafin and FANC and is intended to clarify which conditions aquamation in Flanders would have to meet. Pontes hopes, depending on the research results, that a regulatory framework will be established in which aquamation can be authorised as a new funeral option in Flanders.
Pioneering role in Belgium
At the end of October 2025, Pontes introduced Belgium’s first aquamation device in Wilrijk. The pilot project is being closely monitored by scientific partners and is being carried out in consultation with the competent authorities and specialised bodies. A number of countries around the world already use aquamation, including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland. Knowledge is also being shared with countries where the technology is more advanced.
The new results align with the broader societal debate on freedom of choice in funeral practices. Recent research by the University of Antwerp shows that almost nine in ten Flemish people consider freedom of choice in funeral forms important. Four in ten are positive to very positive about aquamation, and one in five would already consider the method today if it were legally permitted.
“We don’t see aquamation as a replacement for burial or cremation,” concludes Wustenberghs. “It’s a possible additional option. That is precisely why we want to continue this process carefully, transparently and on a scientifically sound basis. Innovation in the funeral sector requires time, respect and trust.”
About Pontes
Pontes is an Intermunicipal Cooperative Association (IGS) comprising 57 member cities and municipalities. As a public and independent partner in the funeral sector, Pontes provides cremations, funeral ceremonies and funeral receptions. Pontes acts as a bridge between the bereaved on the one hand and the funeral sector, government and society on the other. Freedom of choice, neutrality and serenity are central to this role.