UK (Parliament Politic Magazine) – On Monday, the largest funeral provider in the UK made an announcement regarding the introduction of a new practice called resomation. This innovative method, also known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, will be implemented later this year.
The process involves placing the deceased in a biodegradable pouch, which is then enclosed within a container filled with pressurized water and a small quantity of potassium hydroxide. Through this procedure, tissue and cells are rapidly transformed into a solution of macromolecules, with each cycle lasting approximately four hours.
By adopting resomation, the funeral provider aims to offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cremation methods. This development signifies a significant step forward in the funeral industry, as it combines sustainability with the respectful treatment of the deceased.
Co-op Brings Water Cremations Offers Sustainable Alternatives to Traditional Funerals
After the bones have been softened, they are dried and subsequently transformed into a white powder. This powder can then be placed in an urn and returned to the deceased’s relatives. Research indicates that resomation is a more environmentally friendly alternative, as it avoids the release of toxic gases, air pollutants, and harmful fluids.
The process of cremation emits carbon dioxide and potentially hazardous gases, while burials can pose a threat of contaminating groundwater. The Co-op, a company that organizes over 93,000 funerals annually, has announced its collaboration with sustainability experts and academia to further validate existing research during its initial regional pilot. This initiative aims to enhance the company’s services and make them more environmentally friendly.
The Co-op has also informed the Government about its plans to introduce this process in the UK. Notably, the Synod of the Church of England raised questions about new burial methods earlier this year.
While this practice is gaining popularity in the majority of US states, Canada, and South Africa, families in the UK currently have only two options: traditional burials or gas cremations. The Co-op seeks to provide an alternative that aligns with the growing demand for sustainable funeral practices.
By working with sustainability experts and academia, the Co-op aims to ensure that its new approach meets rigorous standards and is backed by scientific research. This collaboration will not only enhance the company’s credibility but also contribute to the development of sustainable funeral practices in the UK.
Co-op Offers Water Cremations as Resomation is Not Illegal
Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a prominent anti-apartheid campaigner who passed away in 2021, has become the most notable figure to opt for resomation as his preferred funeral method.
The introduction of resomation in the United Kingdom will signify a significant milestone, as it has been over 120 years since a new alternative to burial or cremation has been widely accessible for funerals. The last major development in funeral practices occurred with the implementation of the Cremation Act in 1902.
Resomation, although not illegal, must adhere to the necessary health, safety, and environmental regulations. The Law Commission is presently examining current legislation to determine how it can accommodate emerging burial techniques.
According to a recent YouGov poll conducted by Co-op Funeralcare, a staggering 89% of UK adults are unfamiliar with resomation. However, after being informed about it, nearly one-third expressed their willingness to choose this method for their own funeral, if given the opportunity.
Moreover, almost 20% of adults who have organized a funeral within the past five years stated that they would have considered resomation as an option for their loved one’s final farewell, had it been available at the time. By enhancing the grammar, spelling, and overall clarity of the text, we have made it more engaging, professional, and comprehensible.
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What The Experts Have To Say About The Change?
Professor Douglas Davies, an esteemed anthropologist, theologian, and expert in rites at Durham University, has shed light on a fascinating trend. Over the past decade, there has been a significant surge in ecological and sustainability concerns, coupled with a growing desire to reconnect with nature even in death. As a result, an increasing number of individuals are now contemplating the environmental impact of their bodies after they pass away.
In this context, Resomation, a unique method of body disposal, has emerged as a compelling alternative. Professor Davies highlights that Resomation offers the potential for a reduced carbon footprint compared to other traditional forms of body disposal. This environmentally-friendly approach is gaining traction and is expected to captivate the interest of many individuals as it becomes more readily available in the United Kingdom.