A COMPANY wanting to push an environmentally friendly option to cremation at a planned new crematorium at the Tweed Valley Cemetery could face an uphill battle convincing Tweed Shire councillors it is the way to go.

Aquamation Industries, which has pioneered the special water-based process, has sent a letter to councillors and senior staff asking for consideration of their alternative before the council votes, possibly this month, on building a $420,000 crematorium at it main cemetery.

It argues "aquamation" is more environmentally friendly and the council could have the only aquamation centre in the region rather than competing with other crematoria.

But mayor Barry Longland revealed earlier today he is yet to be convinced the alternative was viable and quipped.

"We would have to change the Bible. It says 'ashes to ashes and dust to dust'.

"When I received advice from that company I sent it on to the officers who look after that sort of stuff and I've asked them for a report. as to the process and whether its a viable thing.

"I don't know much about it."

Deputy mayor Phil Youngblutt said he believed the councillors will vote to go ahead with plans for the crematorium, following the decision of council staff to lodge a development application for one with the council's planning department.

He said he personally favoured cremation.

"I think cremation is the way to go. I have heard about the other method but I think the council will stick with cremation," Cr Youngblutt said.