Britain could be home to the world’s first ‘green’, hydrogen-powered crematorium

Even in death, it seems we will be able do our bit for the environment.

For it has emerged that Britain could get the world’s first ‘green’, hydrogen-powered crematorium as early as next year.

Most coffins are burnt in the UK using natural gas, which released carbon dioxide and increases global warming.

Figures suggest that cremations in the UK in 2021 alone generated 66,162 tons of carbon emissions, the equivalent of powering over 100,000 homes with electricity for a year.

But using hydrogen in cremation ceremonies could reduce the greenhouse gas emissions when we pass away.

The pioneering project, funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, is centred on Worthing Crematorium in West Sussex and is part of Adur & Worthing Council’s plan to become carbon neutral by 2030.

It also involves manufacturer DFW Europe, which is testing pioneering hydrogen technology at its base in the Netherlands. If the tests are successful, the technology will be brought over to trial at Worthing as early as spring 2024 – where it will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered crematorium.

Brighton University’s Dr Kirsty Smallbone, who is involved in the testing, said: ‘Achieving Net Zero is vital if we are to slow down the changes occurring in our atmosphere and to our climate.

‘To do this we need to de-carbonise all aspects of our lives, from the cradle to the grave. Removing the reliance on fossil fuels by switching to hydrogen will be a key part of this.’

Councillor Sophie Cox, Worthing council’s cabinet member for climate emergency, said: ‘The crematorium is top of our list for carbon emissions within the council’s estate and this exciting trial will be a huge step towards our goal of becoming a Net Zero authority by 2030.

‘As well as burning hydrogen, using electrical cremation from 100 per cent renewable energy or using biomass – such as wood – could also reduce emissions.’