Environmental impact of crematoria

Question for written answer  E-000343/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Rosa D'Amato (Verts/ALE), Eleonora Evi (Verts/ALE), Ignazio Corrao (Verts/ALE), Piernicola Pedicini (Verts/ALE)

In Italy, there are no uniform rules governing the installation of crematoria or emissions from them, which are comparable to the emissions generated when incinerating waste[1]. Each region establishes its own specific limits as regards where crematoria can be sited and what technologies used.

Presidential Decree No 285/1990 stipulates that crematoria must be constructed inside cemetery boundaries and the construction plans accompanied by a report on the environmental characteristics of the site and the technical/sanitary specifications of the crematorium and its air protection systems.

Under Law No 130/2001, an inter-ministerial order may be issued to lay down technical standards for the installation of cremation facilities as regards emissions limits, technological environments and the materials used in cremation coffins. No such order has ever been issued.

Given the absence of any clear rules or restrictions, small towns have seen a rush to build crematoria, using project financing, on land not covered by planning regulations. This is particularly true in the Marche Region. There would seem to be a similar risk in Lombardy, in the wake of regional government initiatives to develop a network of crematoria.

In the light of the above, can the Commission state whether it plans to harmonise the rules on cemeteries and the environment in the case of crematoria?

• [1] https://www.snpambiente.it/2018/06/15/limpatto-ambientale-dei-forni-crematori/