New Funeral Alternatives Must Consider the Needs of Those Bereaved, Says AtaLoss

9th June 2025

As the Law Commission considers proposals to legalise new funeral methods in the UK, AtaLoss is calling for a balanced approach that prioritises the emotional needs of grieving families. 

The consultation paper, published earlier this week, outlines the potential for alternatives such as alkaline hydrolysis (often called water cremation or resomation) and natural organic reduction (human composting). These options, already in use in countries like the United States, Canada, and South Africa, are being presented as more environmentally sustainable choices compared to traditional cremation and burial. 

Innovation is welcome—especially if it reduces funeral costs and environmental impact— but such decisions must never overlook the crucial role funerals play in the grief journey. 

Our CEO, Yvonne Tulloch says: “AtaLoss welcomes any new initiative that helps people think about and plan for death, especially if it reduces the cost of funerals, but the wishes of those who will be left behind must always be taken into account. Funerals are not just about the disposal of a body, but the opportunity for family and friends to say their goodbye in a way that is helpful and meaningful for them.” 

We caution against overly prescriptive instructions from the deceased as these can unintentionally disrupt the grieving process: “Anything that is prescriptive by the deceased can be counterproductive, complicating rather than enabling the grief journey, with potential for unresolved grief. The means of disposal of the body, however that might be, must feel comfortable for the family.” 

We already have concerns about the growing popularity of direct cremations—no-service, unattended funeral—which, though affordable, can have consequences due to families not being involved.”  

These new options may offer more sustainable or cost-effective ways to manage the body, but we urge policymakers, funeral directors, and individuals to remember that grief care cannot be reduced to logistics. 

However green or affordable the method, it is the emotional and communal aspects of funerals that support healthy grieving. Any future planning by individuals should prioritise choice for those left behind.” 

As the Law Commission’s consultation continues, AtaLoss encourages individuals to have open, honest conversations with their families about end-of-life wishes, and to leave options open for when the time comes.”  

To learn more about the importance of conversations before death read our article The Final Farewell: The Power of Discussing Death 

For more information, support, and resources around bereavement and planning meaningful funerals, browse the support pages of this website.  

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