Scotland has become the first part of the United Kingdom to legalise water cremation, marking one of the most significant developments in funeral care for many decades.
The process – formally known as alkaline hydrolysis and sometimes referred to as “aquamation” – provides families with a third option alongside traditional burial and cremation. New regulations approved by the Scottish Parliament came into force in early March 2026, allowing the method to be offered in Scotland for the first time.
What is water cremation?
Water cremation uses a combination of warm water, gentle heat and an alkaline solution to accelerate the natural breakdown of the body in a sealed chamber. The process typically takes several hours and leaves behind bone fragments, which are then processed into a fine powder similar to cremated ashes. These ashes can then be returned to families in the same way as with traditional cremation.
A more environmentally conscious option
Supporters of the process say it may provide a more environmentally conscious alternative to traditional cremation. Because it operates at lower temperatures, water cremation requires less energy and produces fewer emissions.
The method is already available in several countries, including the United States, Canada and parts of Europe, where it has gradually grown in popularity among those seeking greener end-of-life choices.
A potential shift in funeral choices
For many years, families in the UK have generally chosen between burial and cremation. The introduction of water cremation in Scotland represents the first time a new form of body disposition has been formally introduced in the UK in more than a century.
At present, water cremation is not available in England, but the change in Scotland may prompt further discussion across the wider UK funeral sector in the coming years.
Keeping families informed
The team at Harrison Funeral Home continues to monitor developments within the funeral profession so we can keep families informed about changing options and practices.
While water cremation is not currently available in England, we believe it is important for families to understand how funeral care is evolving and the choices that may become available in the future.