Decomposing Bodies in Boiling Water?... UK Officially Considers "Water Cremation"

"Water Cremation" Considered in the United Kingdom
A More Environmentally Friendly Alternative to Traditional Funerals

The method of decomposing bodies using high-temperature alkaline water, known as "water cremation," is reportedly being considered as a new funeral option in the United Kingdom.

According to British media outlets such as The Sun and the Daily Mail on June 10 (local time), the Law Commission of the United Kingdom is currently reviewing "water cremation" as a new method for handling human remains, in addition to the traditional practices of burial and flame-based cremation.

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Water cremation involves placing a body in high-temperature water mixed with alkaline chemicals to facilitate decomposition. The body is placed in a metal chamber, and alkaline substances are injected. The decomposition process occurs at around 160 degrees Celsius for approximately 90 minutes, resulting in all soft tissues dissolving into a brown liquid, while softened bone fragments remain. This liquid contains salts, sugars, amino acids, and peptides, but the DNA is destroyed, allowing the waste to be safely disposed of through the regular sewage system. If the bereaved family wishes, the remaining bones can be pulverized and returned to them in a manner similar to ashes from traditional cremation.

This method is attracting attention as a so-called "green cremation." Compared to conventional cremation, which uses flames, water cremation consumes less fuel and emits less carbon dioxide. It is also considered more environmentally friendly than burial, which can cause soil contamination, making it a more sustainable funeral option.

Although water cremation was patented as early as 1888, it has not been widely commercialized. Currently, the method is permitted in 30 states in the United States, as well as in Canada and South Africa. In Europe, Ireland was the first country to introduce it. The cost of water cremation ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 (approximately 2.05 million to 6.86 million won), depending on the region, which is comparable to traditional cremation costs.

However, there are significant concerns about this method. Critics argue that discharging the liquid resulting from the dissolved body into the sewage system undermines human dignity. In this regard, one expert noted, "People feel uncomfortable with the idea of mixing the remains of their loved ones with sewage."