BRITAIN’S first ‘green alternative’ to cremation is coming to Wrabness – with hopes it will revolutionise the funeral industry.
Oakfield Wood Wrabness, which was established 28 years ago, lays to rest about 156 people per year in its 50-acre site and will be the first place in the UK to offer Aquamation or water cremation.
Water cremation uses 95 per cent water and five per cent alkaline chemicals meaning it replicates the natural breakdown of the body after burial in an accelerated process.
Water cremation uses 75 per cent less energy than normal cremation, guarantees no cross-contamination, and results in a small carbon footprint.
John Acton, chief executive and owner of Oakfield Wood Wrabness, said this type of cremation means families can have the “peace of mind” they will receive 100 per cent of their loved one’s forms in pure white ashes.
Mr Acton said the flame cremation process takes place at about 870 to 900 degrees Celsius but for water cremation it is about 150 degrees Celsius – meaning less ash is lost to the air.
Cremations account for 78 per cent of funeral services across the British Isles.
While water cremation has been available in Europe only in the past year, with the first place offering the service being Meath in Ireland in 2023.
