Compassionate Farewells for Families
Affordable, eco-friendly aquamation services in Maryland.
Welcome to EcoGrace
Our Mission
The overall concept
The overall concept
At EcoGrace, we believe every person deserves a dignified farewell. Our mission is to provide affordable and environmentally-friendly end-of-life options that honor both the deceased and the planet.
The overall concept
The overall concept
The overall concept
What if saying goodbye could heal the earth?
That’s the question at the heart of Eco Grace Maryland, a new nonprofit dedicated to offering eco-friendly, affordable after-death care to families across our state.
In a time when grief is often rushed, costly, and environmentally harmful, we believe in something better:
🌿 A gentle, water-based
What if saying goodbye could heal the earth?
That’s the question at the heart of Eco Grace Maryland, a new nonprofit dedicated to offering eco-friendly, affordable after-death care to families across our state.
In a time when grief is often rushed, costly, and environmentally harmful, we believe in something better:
🌿 A gentle, water-based alternative to cremation
🤍 A sacred, peaceful return to the earth
💧 A community-centered response to death that honors both people and the planet
This process is called alkaline hydrolysis—also known as aquamation. It’s safe, clean, and 90% more energy-efficient than flame cremation. Yet in Maryland, no nonprofit aquamation provider exists—yet.
That’s why we’re asking for your support.
We are raising $500,000 to establish Maryland’s first nonprofit aquamation center, offering sliding-scale services, spiritual and grief care, and public education on green end-of-life options.
Your gift will help us:
- Install an aquamation system
- Renovate a sacred, healing space
- Provide free or subsidized services for families in need
- Host workshops on eco-grief, justice, and legacy
Whether you can give $50 or $50,000, your support brings us one step closer to our vision:
a world where death care is healing, just, and earth-honoring.
Please consider becoming a founding donor of Eco Grace Maryland. You can make your tax-deductible donation online at [insert link], or contact me personally if you’d like to learn more.
Thank you for helping us restore dignity, compassion, and sustainability to one of life’s most sacred moments.
With deep gratitude,
Rev. Richard Dean Meadows Jr.
Founder & Executive Director
Eco Grace Maryland, Inc.
Community Support
Aquamation Explained
Aquamation Explained
We are dedicated to supporting our community by offering low-cost and free services. Your contributions will help us create a space where grief is honored, and love is celebrated.
- Legal status: In 2010 Maryland’s definition of cremation expanded to include non-flame methods like aquamation—legally permitting the process .
- New regulatory fra
We are dedicated to supporting our community by offering low-cost and free services. Your contributions will help us create a space where grief is honored, and love is celebrated.
- Legal status: In 2010 Maryland’s definition of cremation expanded to include non-flame methods like aquamation—legally permitting the process .
- New regulatory framework: The Green Death Care Options Act (HB 1168 / SB 1028), signed May 9, 2024, and effective October 1, 2024, establishes regulations and licensing overseen by the Maryland Office of Cemetery Oversight and the Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors .
- Current availability: Despite legality, as of mid-2025, active aquamation services have begun in Maryland
Aquamation Explained
Aquamation Explained
Aquamation Explained
More information from State of Maryland
How It Works
The body is placed in a stainless steel chamber filled with a solution of water and alkaline chemicals (typically potassium hydroxide). Through a combination of gentle heat, pressure, and time, the process accelerates natural decomposition—breaking down organic material in a matter of ho
More information from State of Maryland
How It Works
The body is placed in a stainless steel chamber filled with a solution of water and alkaline chemicals (typically potassium hydroxide). Through a combination of gentle heat, pressure, and time, the process accelerates natural decomposition—breaking down organic material in a matter of hours instead of months or years.
What Remains
Once the process is complete:
- The bones are left behind, softened but intact. These are dried, processed into a fine powder, and returned to the family in an urn—much like traditional cremation.
- The liquid byproduct is a sterile solution of amino acids, peptides, sugars, and salts. This nutrient-rich liquid is safely returned to the ecosystem via the wastewater system, adhering to environmental regulations.
Why Choose Aquamation?
Environmental Benefits:
- No harmful emissions or greenhouse gases
- Up to 90% less energy use than flame cremation
- No casket or embalming chemicals required
- No land disturbance as with burial
Cost Considerations:
While prices may vary by provider and location, aquamation is generally comparable to, and in some cases slightly more than, traditional cremation—but often less than burial.
Legal Status:
Aquamation is currently legal in many U.S. states, including Maryland. Legislation continues to evolve as demand increases and public awareness grows.
Public Perception:
As more families seek sustainable options, aquamation is gaining acceptance as a respectful and earth-conscious choice. Some religious communities have raised theological questions, particularly concerning the handling of the liquid byproduct, though many are beginning to embrace its ecological advantages.
Support Our Eco-Friendly Farewells
Your generous donation helps us provide affordable and dignified aquamation services to families in need. Together, we can create a loving space for grief and honor our commitment to the planet. Join us in making a difference today!