Key facts
- England and Wales are considering new body disposal methods.
- Water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis) uses alkaline solutions, heat, and pressure.
- Human composting (natural organic reduction) transforms a body into soil.
- Water cremation is available in Australia and Canada.
- These methods are proposed as more environmentally friendly alternatives.
England and Wales are exploring the introduction of alternative methods for body disposal, such as human composting and water cremation. Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is a process that uses alkaline solutions, heat, and pressure to break down organic materials. This method is already an option for consumers in parts of Australia and Canada. Human composting, or natural organic reduction, involves placing a body in a vessel with organic materials like wood chips and straw, allowing it to decompose into nutrient-rich soil over several weeks. These methods are being considered as more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional burial and cremation.