Water cremation coming to Scotland

Water cremation is something we’ve heard talked about for a few years now, so we were interested to read in the latest edition of Insight, the magazine for our membership organisation, SAIF, that the process has recently been legalised in Scotland (the first part of the UK to legalise this type of cremation).

Also known as alkaline hydrolysis, water cremation uses a combination of water, heat and an alkali solution to accelerate the natural breakdown of the body. The process has a significantly lower carbon footprint than traditional cremation and releases no harmful emissions.  Families are still given their loved one’s ashes afterwards, as with a traditional cremation.

According to a BBC report, the Scottish Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said it was an ‘environmentally friendly alternative’ to more traditional burials or cremations and added: "The process will be subject to the same assurances and regulatory requirements as existing methods, giving bereaved families confidence that their loved ones are treated with care, dignity and respect."

Declan Maguire from SAIF Scotland, said: “We fully support the introduction of these regulations. Independent funeral directors exist to serve the unique needs of their communities, and we know that families are increasingly seeking farewells that align with their environmental values. [In Scotland], our members are ready to explain the process, answer questions and help families decide if this is the right choice for them. Whether it is traditional burial, cremation or now alkaline hydrolysis, we will continue to support families with compassion and professionalism during their time of need.”

While water cremation is not yet available in England, the Law Commission in England and Wales is considering a regulatory framework for new funerary methods, including alkaline hydrolysis.