Call to regulate burial alternative
Updated on 21 April 2008
The Scottish Government is considering a call for regulations to be brought in to cover an alternative to burials and cremations.
Scientists have developed a technique which involves submerging the body in liquid nitrogen. That leaves the remains so brittle that they shatter into a powder as a result of slight vibrations.
The technique, known as promession, was developed by Swedish biologist Susanne Wiigh-Masak.
Supporters argue it is a more environmentally-friendly option than cremation, as they say it avoids pollutants - such as mercury vapour from tooth fillings - being released into the environment.
An expert group set up by the previous Scottish Executive in 2005 to review the law on burial, cremation and cemeteries, considered the issue.
In its report, the Burial and Cremation Review Group noted that new alternatives to burial and cremation were being developed.
And the report said: "Although it was acknowledged that these technologies are still in their infancy, the group considered that they, like traditional methods of disposal, should be regulated."
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: "No decision has been made about any of the recommendations in the report. We will consider the proposals in detail and consult in due course."
The group also recommended there be a radical overhaul of procedures for death certificates.
In addition they also proposed allowing full cemeteries or burial grounds to be re-used 75 years after their last burial.
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