Join us for Cremation Strategies 2025, your front-row seat to the future of cremation. November 18th at 1:00 PM ET Virtually. This dynamic virtual event brings together a panel of renowned experts who will dive into the latest trends, technologies, and strategies reshaping the cremation landscape.

Whether you're a funeral professional looking to expand your services or simply curious about the changing preferences of today’s families, this event is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

As cremation rates climb, so does the need for responsible recycling. Join sessions by Garfield Refining’s Don Winsett and Taylor Johnson and Tim Cermak of Harbison Walker International.

They will share how crematories can modernize operations, reduce landfill waste, and strengthen communication between owners and operators to ensure trusted refining partnerships. As well as refractory materials and high-temperature solutions in your crematory. 

Space is limited—reserve your spot today!  Sign up HERE.

SPEAKERS & SESSIONS

As cremation rates continue to rise, so does the importance of sustainable and responsible metal recycling. This session explores how crematories can evolve outdated practices into environmentally sound solutions that preserve resources and reduce landfill waste. We’ll also highlight the importance of strong communication between operators and owners when selecting and managing refining partnerships, ensuring both parties are aligned on a trusted, accountable recycling program. Led by Garfield Refining, this session provides the knowledge needed to evaluate and enhance your crematory’s recycling efforts.

The rise in cremation has brought new opportunities for crematories to modernize their operations, reduce their environmental impact, and rethink how they handle cremation byproducts, especially metals. For decades, many crematories buried metals post cremation, unaware that these valuable materials could be responsibly recovered and repurposed. Today, sustainable recycling solutions allow crematories to preserve precious resources, reduce landfill waste, and contribute to a more environmentally conscious industry.

In this session, Don Winsett and Taylor Johnson will explore the evolution of cremation metal recycling, from outdated disposal methods to advanced, eco-friendly practices that align with modern environmental standards. You’ll gain a clearer understanding of the types of metals recovered from cremated remains and how ethical refiners collect, process, and repurpose those materials.

We’ll also discuss the importance of open communication and collaboration between crematory operators and ownership when it comes to choosing and evaluating refining partners. In many organizations, operators manage the day-to-day recycling process, while owners or managers may not be fully informed about who the recycling partner is, the details of the program, or whether it is optimized for the best results. Strengthening this communication ensures everyone is aligned on selecting reputable partners, maximizing returns, and upholding the business’s values and standards.

We’ll provide guidance on:

• Questions owners and managers should be asking about their recycling program

• How to evaluate the accountability, ethics, and return accuracy of your refining partner 

• Best practices for aligning operational teams with business leadership

• Environmental benefits of responsible metal recycling, including reducing the demand for raw materials and avoiding landfill contribution

• Choosing a reputable partner ensures accountability through detailed reporting and clear processes

With over 130 years in refining and a dedicated cremation recycling division, Garfield has helped hundreds of crematories across North America build smarter, more responsible programs. Whether you are just exploring the idea of recycling or looking to reevaluate your current partnership, this session will give you the insights to ensure your crematory is maximizing value ethically and sustainably.

Key Takeaways:

Discover Environmentally Responsible Recycling Practices

Learn how crematories can transition from outdated methods, like burying metals, to modern recycling solutions that protect the environment, preserve valuable resources, and support sustainability efforts.

Maximize the Value of Your Recycling Program

Understand how to evaluate and select reputable refining partners to ensure crematory owners and operators are getting the most financial and operational benefit from their metal recycling program.

Strengthen Communication Between Owners and Operators

Gain practical strategies for aligning owners, managers, and operators on recycling decisions, ensuring everyone is informed, compliance is met, and the program’s potential is fully realized.

This webinar is designed for both crematory operators and business owners who want to work together toward a more aligned, informed, and environmentally responsible cremation process.

This presentation explores the critical yet often overlooked role of refractory materials and high-temperature solutions in cremation. Attendees will gain insight into how proper refractory design, maintenance, and innovation impact efficiency, safety, and equipment longevity—ensuring sustainable operations and honoring the integrity of the cremation process.

This presentation takes a closer look at the importance of refractory materials and high-temperature solutions in cremation systems. While often overlooked, these materials are the first line of defense against wear and breakdown caused by repeated exposure to intense heat. Their performance impacts fuel consumption, cycle times, emissions, and the overall reliability of the equipment. Without proper selection, installation, and maintenance, crematory operators can face expensive repairs, downtime, and even compliance challenges.

Attendees will learn how refractory design and maintenance affect the functionality of cremation equipment. The session will highlight the science behind refractory performance, exploring how heat absorption, thermal shock resistance, and structural integrity contribute to consistent and safe operation. Real-world examples will show the consequences of neglecting this key component, such as premature failure, inefficiency, or environmental impact, while also demonstrating how proactive approaches can extend equipment life and optimize performance.

Key Takeaways:

The importance of refractory for a cremation unit

What is attacking the refractory lining of your unit

Do you have the right refractory in place

This webinar is designed for both crematory operators and business owners who want to work together toward a more aligned, informed, and environmentally responsible cremation process.

Thank You Event Sponsors Garfield Refining & Harbison Walker International