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Partner organisation to Resomation Ltd, Kindly Earth, has revealed it is in talks with Scottish funeral providers and crematoria who are interested in offering water cremation services.
It comes as the technology’s introduction is approaching next week (2 March) and represents the most “significant” change to Scottish funeral law in 124 years. Families previously had only two options: burial or cremation.
Hydrolysis uses water and a 5% alkaline solution to break down the body within a sealed, pressurised chamber. This process replicates natural decomposition over three to four hours.
Systems operate at a maximum of 150°C. The method produces no direct toxic emissions to air and can reduce the use of single-use coffins, which are not required.
According to Kindly Earth, it is expected to take six to nine months before the first Scottish facility becomes operational, and providers will have to secure planning permission and obtain discharge consent from local water authorities.
The technology is already legal in 28 US states, Canada, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. The systems are manufactured in Leeds by Resomation.
Scotland’s move does not automatically change the law in the rest of the UK. The Law Commission in England and Wales is considering a draft bill later this year.
Helen Chandler, general manager of Kindly Earth, said: “This is an historic moment for the funeral sector in Scotland. For the first time in more than a century, families will have an additional funeral choice alongside burial and cremation.
“We have been in discussion with organisations in Scotland over several years while the regulations were being developed. Now that the legal framework is in place, we look forward to those conversations progressing.”
She added: “We know that not everyone will choose hydrolysis – and that’s the point. It’s about giving families more choice. Each family has different values and priorities. Some people, particularly those planning ahead for their own funeral, are looking for options that feel more aligned to their own preferences. Hydrolysis provides that additional choice.”
