adSep 25, 2026, 12:27

Cabinet eases rules for remains: resomation and sharing a coffin allowed

The Dutch government is seeking to modernize burial laws to allow for resomation, a sustainable liquid-based decomposition process. Additionally, the proposal includes new options for couples to be buried or cremated together in a single coffin or to inter a partner's ashes within a grave.

The Dutch government is planning to modernize the Burial and Cremation Act to provide citizens with more options regarding the handling of deceased remains. Minister of the Interior Pieter Heerma proposed the introduction of resomation, a sustainable process that converts bodies into a chemical liquid and bone ash. This method is already practiced in other countries and is currently permitted for animals within the Netherlands. The proposal aims to offer more personal choices for families during the mourning process.

In addition to resomation, the government intends to permit individuals to be buried or cremated together in a single coffin. Furthermore, the legislation would allow people to place the ashes of a deceased partner within their own grave. These updates are intended to accommodate requests from families and individuals, including couples who might choose joint euthanasia. While the proposal is moving to the Council of State for advice, the Minister anticipates that implementing these changes will take at least another year.

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Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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