When reviewing or updating a Will, many people also choose to reflect on the arrangements they would like for their funeral. Although these conversations can be sensitive, having clear guidance written down can provide real comfort to loved ones at a difficult time. As part of these considerations, a recent change in Scotland may be relevant when thinking about funeral wishes.
A New Option for Funeral Planning in Scotland
As of 2 March 2026, the Scottish Government has introduced hydrolysis cremation as an alternative to traditional burial or cremation. Scotland is the first country in the UK to adopt this method although hydrolysis is already available in Canada, the United States of America, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland.
Hydrolysis is considered a more sustainable and environmentally conscious option compared to cremation or burial. The process uses a water and potassium hydroxide solution to speed up natural decomposition. Instead of a coffin, an individual is wrapped in biodegradable material such as silk or a woollen shroud before being placed into a heated or pressurised chamber. A new term “powder” is being introduced – equivalent to ashes – which is returned to family members once the hydrolysis process is complete.
Understandably, the introduction of a new concept may be met with some trepidation, perhaps much like the introduction of cremation in 1902, which took quite some time to be accepted and become established practice. However, with scientific and environmental developments over the last 125 years, the introduction of alternative methods is perhaps a natural progression. In addition, alternative options are being practically considered as some areas in Scotland are facing limited available space in cemeteries. In Edinburgh, the local authority has indicated that it anticipates burial space to be fully allocated between 2040-2050 and has not identified additional land suitable for future use. This raises concerns that burial may not remain an option for all residents in future. Whilst the hydrolysis process is somewhat different from traditional burial or cremation, there is support from the public for an alternative and more sustainable option as demonstrated during government consultations. Many individuals over recent years have opted for more environmentally friendly arrangements including wicker or cardboard coffins and burial in .
The cost of hydrolysis in Scotland is not yet known. However, information from other jurisdictions suggests that the price is likely to be similar to cremation, or possibly slightly more expensive (particularly when first introduced), although generally less expensive than burial. It has been suggested that there will be ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the costs over a number of years.
Although hydrolysis is now considered a legal option, it may take some time before it is widely available. As with cremation, the provision and delivery of hydrolysis services will be strictly regulated. It will take time for operators to obtain the necessary consents, planning permissions and for hydrolysis facilities to be established. The regulations also allow local authorities to establish their own hydrolysis facilities or enter into arrangements for services to be provided on their behalf, ensuring the option for hydrolysis should be accessible for all, not just on a private basis.
Reviewing Your Future Wishes
Many people include funeral instructions within their Will providing a written record of their wishes. Whilst these instructions aren’t legally binding, they provide guidance to those planning the funeral arrangements. Alongside funeral instructions, it is advisable to nominate someone who will be responsible for these arrangements, known as an “arrangement on death declaration” which is a legal appointment. It entitles the person(s) appointed to make decisions regarding remains on death which will now include the option of hydrolysis. Including an arrangement on death declaration within a Will minimises potential conflict or family disputes at a difficult and emotional time. Setting these out allows a person to direct what they would (or wouldn’t) like to happen following their passing and to entrust this to someone who will ensure their wishes are respected and followed, where possible.
While the infrastructure for hydrolysis is still developing, it is a good time to review matters. Those who would like to consider hydrolysis as an option may wish to update their existing wishes. For individuals who have not yet expressed funeral preferences, it is an opportunity to reflect on the options available and to put funeral wishes and an arrangement on death declaration in place for the future. Reflecting on these choices in advance can bring clarity and reassurance, both for yourself and for those who may one day be responsible for putting your wishes into practice.
