The Scottish government could be the first in the UK to introduce ‘aquamations’ in an attempt to reduce the amount of energy used during a funeral service.
According to iNews.co.uk, it was open to the idea of opening a resomator, which combines water, heat and chemicals to break down tissues and fats of the body, just before Covid-19 struck. However, the spread of the pandemic caused it to put its plans on hold.
A spokesperson from the government noted that the Burial and Cremation (Scotland) Act of 2016 meant new regulations could be passed for different types of body disposal.
She stated: “We are proud to lead the way in the UK by having a legislative framework that is fit for purpose and can respond to new, innovative technologies.”
The representative added: “We continue to work closely with the funeral sector to support their delivery of high-quality services to bereaved families.”
While ‘aquamations’ are currently not approved in the UK, it might not be long before demand for these water cremations soar, as they are known for being far more environmentally-friendly than cremations or burials.
This is because fewer greenhouse gases are released compared with during a traditional cremation. What’s more, resomators are cheaper than cremators to build and run.
As more people become environmentally conscious, there could be an increase in the number of ‘aquamations’ requested.
Indeed, while they are not yet legal here, some celebrities have already chosen this for their funeral.
The most well-known case was Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who opted for an ‘aquamation’ after he died on Boxing Day in South Africa in 2021, reported The Guardian.
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