Scotland Leads the UK in Legalizing Water Cremation

Scotland has become the first nation in the United Kingdom to legalize water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or aquamation. This environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation and burial offers families a new choice in end-of-life arrangements.

What is Water Cremation?

Alkaline hydrolysis is a process that uses a solution of water and an alkali, such as potassium hydroxide, to accelerate the natural decomposition of human remains. The body is placed in a pressurized metal cylinder and heated to 150°C (300°F) for up to 90 minutes. This dissolves the body tissue, leaving only the bones. These bones are then rinsed, dried, and pulverized into a powder, similar to the ashes produced by traditional cremation, and returned to the family in an urn.

Environmental Benefits

Water cremation is considered a “green” alternative due to its significantly lower carbon footprint. A typical cremation emits around 320kg of carbon dioxide, even as alkaline hydrolysis results in the emission of seven times less CO2 [BBC News]. The process also potentially reduces the use of single-use coffins, as they are not required.

A Historic Shift in Funeral Law

The legalization of water cremation in Scotland marks the most significant change to funeral law since cremation was first introduced in 1902 [BBC News]. Public Health Minister Jenni Minto described it as an “environmentally friendly alternative” and emphasized that the choice of end-of-life arrangements is deeply personal [BBC News].

Global Adoption and Notable Use

Water cremation is already practiced in numerous countries, including the Republic of Ireland, the United States, Canada, Ireland, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand [The Guardian]. Archbishop Desmond Tutu chose water cremation for his funeral in 2022 [The Guardian].

Implementation in Scotland

Kindly Earth, the exclusive manufacturer of hydrolysis equipment in the UK, anticipates it may take up to nine months for the first Scottish facility to become operational. Funeral directors will need to secure both planning permission and a permit from the local water authority [BBC News].

Future Outlook for the UK

The Law Commission in England and Wales is currently considering a regulatory framework for new funerary methods, including hydrolysis and human composting [The Guardian]. Industry professionals anticipate growing public acceptance of water cremation, mirroring the widespread adoption of traditional cremation over the past century.