New rules could ban gas cremation ovens and introduce eco-friendly coffins

Labour is plotting to make UK crematoria greener by banning gas cremation ovens and forcing grieving families to choose eco-friendly wicker or bamboo coffins. TheTelegraph has the story.

New rules for crematoria, drawn up by the UK environment department, are set to be upgraded to meet both new pollution standards and the UK’s commitment to reach the target of net zero by 2050 championed by Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband.

Under the plan, the Government will seek to cut emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, including mercury from dental fillings, and airborne toxins from burning coffin glue and embalming fluid.

Draft rules also suggest crematoria burn bodies one after another, with no gap to retain heat and save on gas – a tough target for an industry that relies almost entirely on gas-fired ovens.

The rules are based on consultations by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), with the industry dating back several years. It will be the first update since 2012.

Read the full story here.