Water cremation in the UK
Scotland has become the first region in the UK to introduce water cremation, with regulations approved and the option officially available from
2 March 2026.
The Scottish Government has confirmed that funeral directors can now offer the process as part of legal cremations, and the first procedures are expected to take place this summer.
For many, this may be the first time they have heard about water cremation. Here are our FAQs to help you understand how it works and why someone might choose it.
What is water cremation?
Water cremation uses a mixture of water and potassium hydroxide inside a sealed, pressurised steel chamber. The body is placed inside, and the solution is heated to around 160°C under pressure, preventing it from boiling. Over several hours, the body breaks down into its chemical components in a process similar to natural decomposition, but much faster.
The remaining liquid is sterile and contains no DNA, and the bones, which are softened by the process, are dried and reduced to ashes, similar to flame cremation.
What is the process?
The body is placed in a biodegradable pouch or directly into the chamber.
The chamber fills with water and alkaline solution.
Heat and pressure accelerate natural decomposition.
After 4–6 hours (or up to 14–16 hours at lower temperatures), the process is complete.
Bone remains are processed into ashes for the family.
Why would someone choose it?
Water cremation is often chosen for its environmental benefits. It produces up to 90% less CO₂ than flame cremation and uses significantly less energy. There are no emissions of mercury or other pollutants. Some consider it a gentler and more natural method.
How much will it cost?
The clearest current indication is that water cremation in Scotland is expected to cost roughly the same as a traditional cremation, with most guidance placing it in the £1,800–£2,500 range. This is comparable to flame cremation, so there is unlikely to be a major price difference.
What about the rest of the UK?
While Scotland has moved ahead, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland have not yet introduced water cremation. There is growing interest, and the Scottish rollout is likely to accelerate discussions and regulatory planning across the rest of the UK, but no official start dates have yet been announced.
However, a dedicated water cremation facility is already being constructed in England, aiming to be the first of its kind in Britain. This suggests that availability in England is approaching, pending regulatory approval and local authority support.
Sources
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd9gkknee0zo
https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/water-cremation-hydrolysis-uk-scotland-b2930116.html
https://withfarra.co.uk/guides/resomation-water-cremation-uk
