A Danville-based business is leading the way in an alternative to traditional cremation, but the process remains illegal in Indiana despite growing acceptance nationwide.
Bio-Response Solutions, a family-run company, specializes in aquamation, a water-based cremation process scientifically known as alkaline hydrolysis. The method uses a combination of water and an alkaline solution, heated to nearly 300 degrees, to break down the body over four hours—replicating what would naturally occur in the ground over decades.
“What would happen in the ground in 60 years, it depends on the environment—we’re able to do in about four hours,” said Samantha Sieber, co-owner of Bio-Response Solutions.
A Greener Alternative
Supporters of aquamation tout its environmental benefits. According to Bio-Response Solutions, the process reduces energy consumption by over 90% compared to traditional flame-based cremation. It does not burn fossil fuels or emit harmful greenhouse gases like mercury. Additionally, it leaves 20% more ashes to return to families.
Sieber said scientists use life cycle assessments to evaluate the environmental impact of funeral technologies. These studies show aquamation has the lowest overall impact among all body disposition methods.
The concept has been around since the mid-1990s. Sieber’s father, Joe Wilson, a Purdue University forestry graduate, first encountered aquamation through two Albany Medical College professors, Peter Weber and Gordon Kaye. While they developed the idea, Sieber said they never created commercial equipment to perform the process.
Now, Bio-Response Solutions proudly provides aquamation services globally, including to 17 different countries, with over half of its business overseas. The water-based final disposition services are also a major provider of animal cremation services. Siber’s team has Pet Systems that also provide alkaline hydrolysis services to animals.
Legislative Hurdles in Indiana
Despite aquamation’s benefits, the process remains illegal in Indiana, even though it is permitted in 28 other states. Sieber expressed frustration that Indiana families must travel elsewhere to access the service.
“I don’t know what will speak to Indiana legislators. Business is going to different states, Hoosier dollars are going to different states, but what’s worse is that families are having to go to different states at the worst time in their life. And we don’t need to put Indiana families through that,” Sieber said.
Indiana Rep. Mark Genda, R-Frankfort, a licensed funeral director with 40 years of experience, is pushing for change. He introduced House Bill 1044, which would legalize aquamation in the state.
“To be able to offer alternatives to families is what it’s all about,” Genda said. “”I know that there is a large group of funeral directors who are ready to talk with the families that they serve about this process and explain it, that here is an option for you.”
The bill passed the Indiana House with strong support in a 70-17 vote. However, it now faces a tougher battle in the state Senate.
“If there is one family in Indiana that wants this, that’s enough to get it passed,” Sieber said. “Because the science is there, it’s dignified, and it’s respectful. And we’re going to be the 29th state—we’re not paving a new path here. This is tried and tested.”
Supporters remain hopeful that Indiana will soon join the growing number of states embracing this environmentally friendly alternative. House Bill 1044 is currently being reviewed in the State Senate by the Committee on Commerce and Technology and is expected to be voted on later this legislative session.
