Legal and General’s recent survey of 2,000 UK respondents reveals over half of Brits are interested in alternative disposition methods when it comes to funerals, showing a shifting dynamic in end-of-life choices.
- Familiarity with Alternative Methods: When asked about their familiarity with alternative methods of final disposition, a divide emerged, with 53% being familiar and 47% not. Younger respondents were more familiar, with 61% in the 16-24 age group, compared to 47% among those aged 45-55.
- Climate Concerns in Funeral Choices: 44% of respondents lacked awareness of the environmental impact of traditional funeral methods, 40% said they were aware, and 16% were uncertain. 55+ year olds (19%) were more likely to be unsure, contrasting with the 13% uncertainty among the 16-24 age group. Regarding the influence of climate concerns on funeral disposition, a significant 30% said that this factor played a role in their end-of-life arrangements. The generational breakdown revealed younger demographics were more influences by this – 43% of 16-24 year olds, compared to 22% of those 55 and above.
- Importance of Traditional Funeral Ceremonies: 51% of respondents relayed that traditional funeral practices were important, while 45% indicated otherwise.
- Preferred End-of-Life Arrangements: 48% preferred cremation, 26% favoured traditional burial and 4% showed interest in aquamation. Traditional burial was notably popular among 16-24 year olds (41%), while cremation dominated among other age groups.