5 Common Misconceptions About Cremations

Cremation has seen a dramatic rise in popularity across Sydney and Australia in recent decades. According to the latest available data, around 70% of Australians now opt for cremation over traditional burial which indicates a significant shift in end-of-life practices.

However, despite its growing acceptance, there are still many misconceptions about cremation services in Sydney that can create confusion or hesitation when making funeral decisions. Here, we’ll address five common misconceptions about cremation to help you make an informed decision.

1. Cremation Prevents You from Having a Traditional Funeral

One of the most prevalent misconceptions about cremation is that it eliminates the possibility of having a traditional funeral. Many people believe that if you choose cremation, you forgo the opportunity for a viewing, a funeral service, or any other traditional rites associated with saying goodbye to a loved one.

The Reality:

Cremation does not preclude you from having a traditional funeral. In fact, many families choose to hold a viewing and a full funeral service before the cremation takes place. The body can be present during the service, allowing friends and family to say their goodbyes in a familiar and meaningful way. After the service, the body is cremated, and the ashes can be kept, scattered, or interred according to the family's wishes. This flexibility allows you to honour your loved one’s life in a way that feels right to you.

2. Cremation Is Less Respectful Than Burial

Another common misconception is that cremation is somehow less respectful or dignified than traditional burial. Some people worry that cremation might not honour the deceased in the same way that a burial does.

The Reality:

Respect and dignity are not determined by the method of final disposition but by how the family and friends choose to remember and honour the deceased. Cremation is a respectful process that can be just as dignified as a burial. Many cultures and religions around the world have practiced cremation for centuries, seeing it as a reverent way to return the body to nature. Whether you choose burial or cremation, the key is to personalise the service to reflect the life, beliefs, and values of the deceased.

3. Cremation Is Not Environmentally Friendly

Some people believe that cremation is harmful to the environment and therefore choose burial as a greener option. This misconception stems from concerns about the energy used during the cremation process and the release of emissions.

The Reality:

While it’s true that cremation does involve the use of energy, modern cremation practices have become more environmentally friendly over the years. Cremation avoids the use of land for burial and the need for embalming chemicals, which can leach into the ground. For those concerned about the environment, there are also options such as biodegradable urns and green cremation practices, which further reduce the ecological footprint.

4. You Can’t Be Sure You’re Getting Your Loved One’s Ashes

A fear that some people have is the possibility of receiving the wrong ashes after the cremation process. This concern arises from a lack of understanding about how cremation facilities operate and the safeguards in place.

The Reality:

Crematories follow strict protocols to ensure that the ashes you receive are those of your loved one. In Sydney and across Australia, cremation facilities are required to adhere to rigorous standards and procedures. Each body is carefully tracked throughout the entire process, from the moment it arrives at the crematory to the final placement of the ashes in an urn. This tracking includes identification tags, documentation, and verification steps to ensure that there is no mix-up.

5. Cremation Is the Cheapest Option

Many people assume that cremation is automatically the cheapest option for end-of-life arrangements, often thinking that it’s a budget-friendly alternative to burial. While cremation can be more affordable, this is not always the case.

The Reality:

The cost of cremation varies depending on the services you choose. While direct cremation (where there is no service, viewing, or ceremony) is typically less expensive than a full burial, the overall cost can increase if you opt for additional services like a funeral service, viewing, or special urn. In Sydney, the cost of cremation can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on your choices. It’s important to compare all options and consider what is most meaningful for you and your family, rather than making a decision based solely on cost.

Still Have Questions About Crematoriums And The Practice Of Cremation?

Cremation is a flexible and respectful option that offers many possibilities for honouring your loved one.

If you’re considering cremation in Sydney and have more questions, contact Funera Sydney today. We’re here to help you explore all your options and ensure that your loved one’s final farewell is handled with care and respect.