What Is Human Composting (Natural Organic Reduction) and How Does It Work?
By CRYSTAL BAI •
The short answer: Human composting — legally called natural organic reduction (NOR) — is a disposition method that transforms human remains into nutrient-rich soil through accelerated natural decomposition in a temperature-controlled vessel over approximately 30–45 days.
How Natural Organic Reduction Works
The process follows these steps:
- Placement: The body is placed in a vessel (typically a steel cradle or capsule) with organic materials like wood chips, alfalfa, and straw
- Decomposition: Microbes break down the body over 30–45 days in a controlled warm, oxygen-rich environment
- Curing: The resulting soil is screened to remove non-organic materials (dental fillings, joint replacements) and cured for an additional 2–4 weeks
- Return: Families receive approximately one cubic yard (about 2 wheelbarrows) of nutrient-rich soil
Which States Allow Human Composting?
| State | Legal Since |
|---|---|
| Washington | 2019 |
| Colorado | 2021 |
| Oregon | 2021 |
| Vermont | 2022 |
| California | 2022 |
| Nevada | 2023 |
| Arizona | 2023 |
| New York | 2023 |
| Minnesota | 2023 |
| Connecticut | 2023 |
Cost of Human Composting
NOR currently costs between $4,000 and $8,000 — more expensive than cremation ($1,500–$3,500) but competitive with conventional burial ($8,000–$15,000). As providers scale, costs are expected to decrease.
Providers Offering Human Composting
- Recompose (Seattle, WA) — the first NOR facility in the US, opened 2021
- Earth Funeral (Auburn, WA)
- Return Home (Auburn, WA)
- Muskegon County Natural Burial (MI)
- Multiple licensed funeral homes in California, Colorado, and Oregon
Environmental Impact
Compared to conventional burial or cremation:
- Saves approximately 1 metric ton of CO2 equivalent per person (vs. cremation)
- Returns nutrients to the earth rather than polluting groundwater or air
- Each NOR produces soil that can sequester additional carbon when used in gardens or forests
Religious and Ethical Considerations
The Catholic Church has expressed concern about NOR, stating in 2023 that it conflicts with respect for bodily remains. Many Protestant, Jewish, Islamic, Buddhist, and secular families have embraced it. Families should consult with their faith communities and consider their own values when evaluating this option.