One can now turn the ashes of their loved ones into a blossoming coral reef under the sea. Set Free at Sea is an organization based in Georgia that builds bases for coral reefs out of cremated remains and eco-friendly materials.

By doing so, the organization is helping dozens of struggling ecosystems thrive amidst the changing underwater climate. The relatives of the deceased also feel more at peace knowing that their loved one is contributing to the well being of the planet.

Coral reefs are created by tiny organisms found in marine waters. They attach to hard surfaces usually found near the shores and form colonies that stretch into reefs which provide shelter to other organisms like sea grass, fishes, eels sponges etc. Thus the coral reefs are an ecosystem in itself.

People at Set Free at Sea combines an organic  live-rock mixture with cremated remains and they are sculpted and cured into a structure that forms the base of the reefs. They are placed at different locations on the ocean floor so that coral reefs can thrive. The location is also filmed so that family members can see where their loved one is laid to rest. It also gives updates so that the family can see how that structure is helping to save the underwater ecosystem.

The organization offers a package that includes an engraved tabletop replica of the reef structure; a DVD of the reef’s placement; GPS coordinates of the reef’s location; framed certificates; and a flower arrangement that is lowered with the memorial.