The Community Development Company of Nesting (CDCN) recently completed a thorough study to investigate the feasibility of introducing new funeral and burial services in Shetland. The study, which received funding from the Scottish Government’s CLLD programme, Shetland Islands Council’s Economic Development Grant Scheme, and the Shetland Community Benefit Fund, was carried out to assess whether CDCN could offer alternative services that align with community needs.
Several innovative ideas were explored, such as environmentally friendly burial options, alkaline hydrolysis as a greener cremation method, and themed funerals reflecting Shetland's rich Norse heritage. The research also considered pet burial grounds and even options involving scattering ashes in space.
Challenges Highlight the Complexity of New Services
While interest in eco-friendly funeral options was apparent—particularly for natural burial sites and water-based cremation alternatives—the study showed that the financial and practical challenges involved are significant. Alkaline hydrolysis, despite being a sustainable option, would require over £1 million to establish and would not be economically viable given the projected ongoing losses. Natural burial sites offered only modest returns, and the potential addition of themed funerals or pet burials did not provide enough certainty to justify the investment.
Next Steps and Future Opportunities
As a result, CDCN has decided not to move forward with these proposals. However, the organisation recognises the value of the information gathered and has shared the study’s findings with relevant parties, such as Shetland Islands Council’s Burial Services, to support their planning. CDCN remains open to partnering with any groups interested in further exploring these service options.
Looking to the future, CDCN will continue to identify projects that can benefit the local community, drawing on ideas presented in their recently updated Community Action Plan.
A CDCN spokesperson concluded: “This study has given us a clearer understanding of what could be possible in the future. Although we're not pursuing these services ourselves, we believe the knowledge gained will be valuable for the wider community as we continue to explore ways to support Nesting, Girlsta, and Wadbister.”
The completed Options Appraisal and Business Plan are available here.
