Ash-to-gemstone memorial services and their prospects for contributing to Vietnam’s socio-economic sustainable development goals

Vietnam is undergoing major demographic, residential, urbanization, modernization, and international integration changes that are reshaping preferences for burial and memorial practices. This study examines ash-to-gemstone memorial services, in which cremated remains are transformed into gemstone-like memorial objects, and assesses their potential contribution to Vietnam’s socio-economic sustainable development goals. Using an interdisciplinary approach spanning demography, specialized-service management, sociology, economics, and sustainable development, the study highlights potential benefits in land-use efficiency, environmental protection, memorial flexibility, and preservation of cultural values associated with filial piety. The findings suggest that this model may contribute particularly to Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation and Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities. The study also emphasizes the need for transparent, ethical, and culturally appropriate governance of this emerging service.