One of the more difficult things that any of us has to face is the loss of a loved one. It isn’t just the grieving process we have to go through, it’s also decisions that need to be made.
One of the decisions is what to do with the body of our loved one. There are times when they may make that choice for us, but at other times, we are left with the difficult decision.
Generally speaking, there were two different options available. One was to have the body cremated and the other was to have it embalmed and buried. Now there is another option, and it may be legal in the UK soon.
We’re discussing a process known as alkaline hydrolysis, more commonly referred to as water cremation. It uses alkaline chemicals in high-temperature water to decompose a corpse quickly, leaving only bones and liquid.
That remaining liquid, known as ‘effluent’, can go down the drain with the wastewater. The bones can be ground to ash so the family can take them home.
This method may be selected by some because it is more ecologically friendly compared to cremations or burials. In a typical cremation, fuel is consumed, and a large amount of carbon dioxide and pollutants are released.
Land burials are also an issue, as it may take years for the corpse to decompose, as well as the coffin. That is especially true if it is made of plastic or metal.
Users are now saying that the new ‘boil in the bag’ method is a good choice for the environment. Others feel that it is undignified.
The process is fairly easy to understand. The body is put into a pressurized vessel containing a mixture of alkaline chemicals and water.
They then heat the vessel to 160° so the body decomposes quickly into bones and liquid. The remaining liquid ‘effluent’ can be dumped down the drain, and the bones are ground ash to take home.
It takes about 90 minutes for the entire process to be complete. It may be a better choice for the environment, but it is a controversial choice nonetheless. Many critics feel that draining the liquid into the sewer is not a very dignified way to dispose of a body.
In the United States, water cremation is an option in 30 states. It is also available in South Africa and Canada. Ireland soon followed, getting started in 2023.
They are not yet sure when the first water cremation will be permitted in the UK. There were some indications from Co-op Funeralcare that it may be coming soon.
A spokesman for that company said: “At Co-op Funeralcare, we are committed to serving the needs of our member-owners and clients and offering the most sustainable and affordable services.
“In 2023, we announced our ambition to pilot Resomation in the UK, and we subsequently worked closely with the Government to explore the regulatory requirements to introduce this service across the nation.
“However, we did not proceed with this as, at the time, we were unable to find a path through the current regulatory framework.
“We welcome The Law Commission’s review and encourage exploration into alternative methods that provide consumers with greater choice and deliver environmental benefits.”