Frequently Asked Questions 🌿 Pachamama Biodegradable Urns

At Pachamama, we know that saying goodbye is a sacred act of love. Our biodegradable urns are created to help families honor a life in harmony with nature. Below are answers to the questions families ask us most, written with warmth and clarity.

1) Do I need to prepare the urn before the ceremony?

No preparation is needed. Each Pachamama urn arrives fully assembled with a biodegradable bag inside. Simply place the ashes in the bag, seal it, and the urn is ready for the ceremony.

2) Can ashes be shared among family members?

Yes. Our Small Urns are designed to hold a portion of ashes, making them perfect for sharing among loved ones. For a full farewell, many families choose one Medium or Large Urn for the main ceremony, along with several Small Urns for children, siblings, or close friends.

3) How do Pachamama urns respect the environment?

Our urns are crafted from sustainable, biodegradable materials safe for both water and earth burials. They dissolve naturally—without plastics, metals, or toxins—ensuring a gentle return to the earth and no harm to wildlife or aquatic life.

4) What happens to the urn during the ceremony?

Pachamama urns are designed to float briefly—between 30 seconds and 2 minutes—before gently sinking. Once submerged, the urn and its biodegradable bag dissolve completely, usually within a week, leaving nothing behind but the memory of the moment.

5) Can Pachamama urns be used for travel on airplanes?

We recommend traveling with ashes in a sturdy, TSA-approved temporary container. Our biodegradable urns are delicate and designed for the ceremony itself (often decorated with paper flowers). Families typically transfer ashes into the urn once they arrive at the ceremony location.

6) Are Pachamama urns accepted on cruise lines?

Yes, most major cruise lines allow biodegradable urns, and some require a biodegradability certificate, which we provide with every order. Ceremonies usually take place on an open deck at sea, never from stateroom balconies. Always check with Guest Services before sailing.

7) What is the meaning of the emblem inside each urn?

Each urn holds a small emblem—a butterfly, dragonfly, or feather—chosen to symbolize the continuing bond with your loved one. Many families find comfort in these gentle reminders of presence, transformation, and the enduring nature of love.

8) Can I include flowers or petals?

Yes, natural flowers or petals are welcome. Please avoid anything that doesn’t biodegrade quickly, such as ribbons, wire, or plastic. Many families scatter petals as a blessing after the urn is released.

9) How can I use a Pachamama urn in a memorial ceremony?

Our urns can be part of any gathering—at sea, by a lake, in a garden, or at home. Some families hold a simple, quiet farewell, while others gather with extended family and friends. We provide gentle guidelines, and our team is always here to offer ideas for creating a ceremony that feels right for you.

10) Who can I contact for help or urgent questions?

We are here with empathy and care. Email hello@pachamamatributes.com and we will respond quickly—especially for time-sensitive requests such as cruise departures or travel ceremonies.