8.1 Sector Descriptions and Overview
The cremation of human remains results in emissions of particulate matter, SO2, NOx, VOC, CO, and HAPs. It is a significant source of mercury emissions, due to mercury in dental fillings, as well as mercury in blood and tissues. In 2020, human cremation resulted in the emissions of approximately 2.3 tons of mercury.
The cremation of animals also results in emissions of CAPs and HAPs, though it emits less mercury than human cremation. In 2020, animal cremation resulted in the emissions of approximately 2.4 lbs. of mercury.
SCCs for human and animal cremation are provided in Table 8.1.
| SCC | SCC Level 1 | SCC Level 2 | SCC Level 3 | SCC Level 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2810060100 | Miscellaneous Area Sources | Other Combustion | Cremation | Humans |
| 2810060200 | Miscellaneous Area Sources | Other Combustion | Cremation | Animals |