Milestones for the implementation of PGN 5/2 (25) for all Crematoria were announced at CBCE2025, by Richard Williams, Unit Manager, and Chidiebere Igwebuike, Senior Advisor, from the Local Authority Unit at the Environment Agency.

In a presentation to delegates they set out the background to the review, the changes which will be made to the existing guidance notes and milestones for their introduction.

Milestones for implementation of Changes

Existing Crematoria

Flue gas treatment Including mercury abatement

4 years from publication of new guidance, all cremators. Otherwise operation will be limited to 100 hours per calendar year

NOx monitoring and associated emission limit value.

4 Years from publication for compliance with the agreed ELV of 200mg/m3.

NH3 (Ammonia slip)

1 month from publication of new guidance. Applies only where NOx abatement Is installed.

Mandatory accreditation for monitoring methods, equipment and personnel (MCERTS)

1 month from publication of the new guidance.

Fuel and electricity metering to aid reporting of carbon emissions annually.

4 years from publication of new guidelines.

New or replaced cremators

Flue gas treatment Including mercury abatement

1 month from publication of new guidance and all new and replacement cremators.

NOx monitoring and associated emission limit value.

1 month from publication of new guidance for NOx monitoring.

NH3 (Ammonia slip)

1 month from publication of new guidance. Applies only where NOx abatement is installed.

Mandatory accreditation for monitoring methods, equipment and personnel (MCERTS)

1 month from publication of the new guidance.

Fuel and electricity metering to aid reporting of carbon emissions annually.

1 month from publication of new guidance. All new and replacement cremators

We await the date of the introduction of the new guidance, which from the title we assume will be later this year.

In the meantime we will ensure the Trusted Crematorium Standard reflects the changes as they are introduced. Crematorium owners and managers should liase with their EHO’s, trade organisations and equipment manufacturers for the latest information.