Crematories want to ‘cool the F’s down’

(The Center Square) – A slight operating change for crematories across Pennsylvania could impact costs and air quality in a big way.

That’s why the Senate Environmental and Resources Committee enjoyed a bit of levity on Tuesday before approving House Bill 1246, a proposed amendment to the state’s code for crematories.

A memo from the bill’s prime sponsor, Rep. Steven Malagari, D-Lansdale, calls on legislators to “Cool the ℉s Down.”

The regulatory change would lower the minimum operating temperature of crematoriums from 1800℉ to 1600℉, “if anybody cares at that point,” joked Chairman Sen. Gene Yaw, R-23, upon introducing the bill.

Though seemingly minor, the impact on the environment and for the wallets of crematory operators could be significant. Most facilities use petroleum or natural gas as fuel, and a single cremation demands upwards of 20 gallons, producing over 500 pounds of carbon dioxide in the process.

The bill is supported by the Pennsylvania Cemetery, Crematory, and Funeral Association, an industry that is seeing a huge uptick in demand for the service. Since the current codes were written, cremations have risen from 17.1% to 54.6% and are projected to continue sharply rising over the next decade, hitting 79.1% by 2035 according to Malagari.

Funerary industry experts say that the major change is twofold. As the massive Baby Boomer generation ages, so do cultural norms shift away from traditional burial. Environmental impact, cost, and religious sentiments—or lack thereof—are major factors in making the decision. More and more individuals and families are approaching end of life planning with a longer view of the future and lighter pockets at retirement, even embracing a new wave of “green burials” intended to reduce the footprint of death.

If the bill passes, crematories brought into operation after 1989 will be allowed to operate at or above the lower temperature. For the 200 facilities across Pennsylvania, this will mean an immediate decrease in fuel costs and reduced strain on equipment, welcome benefits as mortuary services contend with the weight of an aging population.