Alexandra Monteiro, researcher at the Department of Environment and Planning and the Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) at the University of Aveiro, was interviewed on the RTP1 programme “A Prova dos Factos” (The Test of Facts), which addressed the topic “Crematoria in Portugal: Unregulated and Unmonitored”.
In the interview, the expert shared her perspective as an air quality researcher, discussing what is currently known about the impact of cremations on air pollution.
According to the data presented, the number of cremations in Portugal has increased by 50% over the past five years. However, this activity remains largely understudied and is practically exempt from specific regulation. Cremations mostly take place in cemeteries or crematoria located near residential areas, raising serious public health concerns due to the absence of monitoring and the lack of legal requirements for measuring pollutant emissions resulting from the process.
At present, there is only a single national estimate, which considers the cremation of the body alone, without accounting for the burning of the coffin or other aspects of the procedure. Even so, the results suggest that, for most pollutants, emissions are relatively insignificant. However, mercury released from dental amalgams stands out as a cause for concern, showing a more significant contribution. This heavy metal is particularly dangerous due to its capacity to accumulate in ecosystems, posing long-term environmental risks.
The researcher also warned of the potential release of dioxins highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds since cremation is, in practice, a form of incineration. She emphasised that proper oversight and regulation of cremation processes are essential to ensure compliance with environmental standards and to safeguard public health, especially in a sector that remains largely unregulated in Portugal.
Full interview available on RTP: A Prova dos Factos – Crematoria in Portugal: Unregulated and Unmonitored.