We are often asked what happens to any materials or metals that are remaining after a cremation has taken place.
Many of the materials used for special medical purposes are stainless steel, titanium and cobalt chrome and these are non-renewable resources. Over time, these resources will be depleted, and such metals will become less available. The practice of recycling these metals has now become a European standard and provides us with an opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future.
Subject to applicant approval (which we ask on your cremation paperwork), we recycle all of the metals collected after our cremations and donate all proceeds to local death related charities, including Macmillan Cancer Research, Cruse Bereavement Care and the Chyrelle Addams Breast Cancer Trust. Durham Crematorium does not benefit in any way from the recycling of these materials. Please see Money to Charities for more information.
For softer metals such as gold or silver, we strongly suggest you ask your Funeral Director to remove any items made of these from the deceased before the cremation. If you are not sure or have any further questions please ask your Funeral Director.
