Are you looking for a more eco-friendly alternative for burials in the UK? Look no further than water cremation. This innovative method, also known as aquamation or resomation, uses water and an alkaline solution to gently break down the body, leaving only the bones behind. It uses five times less energy than traditional fire cremation and has a significantly lower carbon footprint. With rising demand for environmentally conscious end-of-life options, water cremation is becoming a popular choice for those looking to leave a greener legacy.
What is water cremation?
Water cremation, also known as aquamation, resomation, or alkaline hydrolysis, is an eco-friendly burial alternative that is gaining popularity in the UK and other countries. Unlike traditional burial or fire cremation, water cremation uses water and an alkaline solution to dissolve the body, leaving only the skeletal remains. This process offers a gentler and kinder approach to honoring the deceased while significantly reducing carbon emissions and pollution.
The rise of eco-friendly burial alternatives
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the demand for environmentally conscious end-of-life options. People are becoming more aware of the impact traditional burial and fire cremation have on the environment, leading to a search for alternative methods. Water cremation has emerged as a promising solution to meet this demand. The introduction of water cremation in the UK by Co-op Funeralcare, the country’s largest funeral care provider, has marked a significant milestone in offering eco-friendly burial options.
How does water cremation work?
Water cremation follows a step-by-step process. The body is placed in a steel vessel filled with water and an alkaline solution. Heat is then applied, gradually breaking down the flesh into its chemical components, such as amino acids, peptides, sugars, and salts. This process takes approximately three to four hours, after which only the bones remain. The bones are then ground down to a fine white powder, which is placed in an urn and returned to the family as a cherished keepsake.
Environmental benefits of water cremation
Water cremation offers numerous environmental benefits compared to traditional burial and fire cremation. Firstly, it results in significantly reduced carbon emissions. Traditional cremation emits approximately 245kg of carbon emissions, equivalent to charging a smartphone over 29,000 times. Water cremation, on the other hand, uses five times less energy and produces fewer carbon emissions. Additionally, water cremation eliminates the release of harmful pollutants and chemicals into the environment, addressing concerns about soil and waterway contamination associated with traditional burials.
Public reception and acceptance
Although water cremation presents numerous environmental advantages, there is still low awareness among the public. Research conducted by YouGov, commissioned by Co-op Funeralcare, revealed that 89% of UK adults had not heard of the term “resomation.” However, once educated about the process, nearly one-third of respondents expressed interest in choosing water cremation for their own funeral. The rise in ecological and sustainability concerns, combined with a desire for natural after-death arrangements, has contributed to an increased consideration of the environmental impact of one’s body once deceased.
Regulations and legalization in the UK
Water cremation is already legal in the UK, subject to compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Co-op Funeralcare became the first provider to offer this service in the country. Health, safety, and environmental regulations play a crucial role in ensuring the proper and responsible implementation of water cremation. These regulations aim to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and ensure that the process meets the desired standards of safety and professionalism.
Water cremation facilities in Europe
The introduction of water cremation in the UK has inspired other European countries to explore this eco-friendly burial alternative. Ireland is set to open its first water cremation facility this year, joining the ranks of countries like the US, Canada, and South Africa where the service is already available. Belgium and the Netherlands are also considering the introduction of water cremation, although there are regulatory hurdles that need to be addressed to make it a reality.
Comparison with traditional burial and cremation
When comparing water cremation to traditional burial and fire cremation, the environmental impact becomes evident. Traditional burials generate negative environmental consequences due to the use of embalming chemicals, which can leak and pollute the surrounding soil and waterways. Fire cremation, although widely practiced, contributes to high carbon emissions and energy consumption. Water cremation stands out as an eco-friendly alternative, significantly reducing carbon emissions, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources.
Cultural and religious considerations
Cultural and religious perspectives play a crucial role in determining the acceptance and adoption of water cremation. Attitudes towards water cremation may vary across different cultures, as customs and practices differ. Religious beliefs and traditions also influence the acceptability of water cremation. It is essential to respect and understand diverse beliefs and practices when considering alternative burial methods, ensuring that individuals have the freedom to choose an approach that aligns with their cultural and religious values.
Future prospects and adoption
Water cremation has the potential to become a mainstream burial option as people become more educated and aware of the environmental impact of traditional methods. The role of education and awareness campaigns is vital in promoting water cremation and encouraging wider acceptance. As more providers and facilities offer this eco-friendly option, accessibility and availability will increase. The growing demand for environmentally conscious burial alternatives will drive the continued adoption and integration of water cremation into the funeral industry.
