What are potential environmental impacts of cremation?

The correct choice highlights that emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants represent significant environmental impacts associated with the cremation process. Cremation involves combustion, which can release various emissions into the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, and potentially harmful air pollutants such as particulate matter and heavy metals, depending on the materials present in the remains and any personal items cremated alongside them.

This choice reflects a growing awareness of the environmental consequences of cremation, especially as society increasingly focuses on sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. Crematories often implement measures to minimize these emissions, but it remains an essential consideration in discussions about the environmental effects of final disposition practices.

The other options do not accurately represent the broader scope of environmental impacts tied to cremation. For instance, stating that there is only noise pollution would ignore the more substantial concerns about air quality and greenhouse gas emissions. Claiming that there is no significant environmental impact undermines the reality of the emissions produced. Lastly, while cremation does involve energy consumption, describing it as limited does not capture the reality of the energy demands of the cremation process, especially considering the heat required for proper cremation. Hence, the emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants capture the significant environmental challenges posed by cremation.