In April this year one of the UK’s largest crematorium operators is to open a the UK’s first renewable energy-powered cremator in Doncaster.
The company is Memoria, and its Deputy CEO, Jamieson Hodgson, said: “Since the beginning of time, mankind has chosen to either bury or cremate their loved ones, however, change to the cremation process was needed to ensure that it could meet its environmental obligations.
“This new development will allow the cremation process to be carried forward into the 21st century in a sustainable way. This facility will offer the first new-age electric cremator in the UK and reduce emissions by 95%. We were proud to be the first operator to bring this innovation to the market in 2020. In short, this paves the way for the cremation industry to be carbon neutral.”
Memoria Ltd is a family-run business which has developed 18 memorial parks and crematoria since 2003.
Mr Hodgson added: “We have always been at the forefront of technology in this industry to ensure that the environment is as protected by the cremation process as possible. We have a commitment to continue to work on these technologies with cremator manufacturers so that these improvements can continue to be made and we can support the UK government’s target of being carbon neutral by 2050. This is the first step for the industry to fulfil its environmental obligations.”
The Memorial Park will be the first new crematorium to be developed in Doncaster for over 60 years, and is expected take the top level of pressure off Rose Hill crematorium, built in 1960. This will reduce waiting times for bereaved families during the busier times of the year and increase service levels in the area.
The site will feature a brand-new state of the art chapel with seating for over 100 people with capabilities to offer web casting, mood lighting, visual tributes, and a choice of thousands of song choices through the innovative Obitus music library. One-hour service times will be offered as standard.
Hodgson added: “Memoria Doncaster and South Yorkshire will be introducing significant new innovations to respond to the latest requirements that bereaved families are requesting. The modern funeral is all about providing families with a diversity of choice whether that means a direct cremation or a two-hour celebration of life service.”
