Hydrolysis, also known as water cremation, has been dubbed “boil-in-the-bag” funerals by some and has been effectively banned in the UK until now
“Boil-in-the-bag” funerals are coming to the UK, it has been announced. Hydrolysis provides an eco-friendly option to conventional cremations or burials.
Formally called water cremation, the process has been labelled “boil-in-the-bag” funerals by some observers. Until now the method has been essentially prohibited in the UK, though it’s already established in Ireland, Canada and the United States.
Scotland has now become the first nation within the UK to adopt the technique following regulations introduced by the Scottish Government, which gained approval from the Scottish Parliament. In confirming the development, officials said it would provide choice for those seeking alternatives to burial or cremation for the first time in over a century.
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “The choices people make about their remains prior to death are deeply personal, shaped by individual values, beliefs and the wishes of their families. Hydrolysis offers a new, environmentally friendly alternative to burial or cremation, responding to significant public support for greater choice, and it will be the first new option available for over 120 years.
“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.”, reports the Mirror.
Hydrolysis sees the body wrapped in a silk or woollen shroud, or alternative biodegradable fabric, before being positioned in a vessel containing heated water and chemical solutions, accelerating the decomposition process. The remains can be given back to relatives, much like ashes after traditional cremation.
According to cremation.green the advantages include eliminating fossil fuel usage, lowering carbon dioxide emissions and, when compared to conventional burial, it’s considerably quicker. The website states that traditional burial methods require up to 25 years for complete human decomposition, whilst water-based cremation can be completed in merely two to three hours.
Already operating across 30 American states, plus Canada and South Africa, Europe’s inaugural water cremation centre, or resomation facility, launched in early 2023 in Navan, Co Meath, Ireland. The initial procedures in Scotland are anticipated to commence this summer once all required permissions are secured.
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