Frequently Asked Questions on Biodegradable Urns

FAQ's

How long will the Journey Earthurns and The Shells take to sink?

In tests it has been found that the Journey Earthurns and the Shell Deep Water Bio Urns will sink between three and five minutes after being placed in the water. The time it takes for the urn to sink may vary significantly depending in local weather and water conditions and the weight of the cremated remains.

How long will the urn take to break down in water?

Within 24 hours of being placed in the water, the Journey Earthurns and Shell Deep Water Bio Urns will not be recognizable. Depending on local water conditions it can take between 30 and 90 days to completely degrade. The Salt Urns are hand crafted from solid blocks of Himalayan salt and and will dissolve within four hours when placed in water. They are available in Adult and Mini size. Please note that these are all organic products that biodegrade naturally over time.

How long will the urn take to break down when buried in the ground?

It can take several months depending on local conditions. Generally the more moisture in the soil, the quicker the urn will biodegrade.

Can I travel with the urn?

Yes, all of Passages urns are very durable and travel well. Further more, they meet all TSA requirements for "in-cabin" airline transportation.

What is included with each urn?

Included with each urn is a biodegradable plastic bag and tie. These bags are either  packed inside the urn, or they can be located in the box that the urns are shipped in. (Occasionally the bags will fall to the bottom of the box during shipping) The bags are EPA approved and will dissolve in 60 seconds when placed in warm or cold water.

Will the urn biodegrade before I have time to bury or scatter?

No, our biodegradable urns will not begin to degrade until they are placed in "the elements" (earth or water). This allows families to wait until they are ready to scatter or bury the cremains.

How will my order be shipped?

Unless otherwise directed, Ashes on the Sea will ship all orders via UPS. Most UPS Ground shipments will be received at their final destination within 5 - 7 business days. Expedited shipping is available, up to and including Overnight Service.

How much is shipping?

Most orders that are shipped within the U.S. via UPS Priority will cost between $10 - $12 per package. Overnight shipping can cost $45 or more depending on the product and where it is being shipped to. Back