Human composting—officially known as Natural Organic Reduction (NOR)—is one of the newest and most environmentally thoughtful ways to return the body to the earth. At its core, the process is beautifully simple: through time, microorganisms, and trained stewardship, the body is transformed into healthy, nutrient-rich soil.
There are no flames, no chemicals, no concrete vaults—just a calm, natural cycle of renewal guided by science and respect.
Although NOR is relatively new as a legal option in the United States, it is rooted in ancient principles of natural decomposition. What is new is the modern, regulated framework that makes the process safe, predictable, and accessible—especially in cities and suburban areas where natural burial may not be possible.
This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, explores environmental benefits, compares NOR to other eco-friendly disposition methods, and outlines costs, legal considerations, and how to decide if it’s right for you or your family.
1. What Is Human Composting?
Human composting is a form of final disposition in which the body is placed in a vessel with organic materials—typically wood chips, straw, and alfalfa—and gently transformed into soil through aerobic microbial activity. These are the same natural microbes that break down leaves and plants on a forest floor.
Unlike flame cremation, which relies on intense heat, or burial, which depends on local soil conditions, NOR takes place in a controlled environment where temperature, moisture, and airflow are carefully monitored. There is no smoke, no fire, and no industrial emissions.
The final result is nutrient-rich soil that can be returned to families, used for memorial plantings (where permitted), or donated to conservation projects.
Many choose NOR because it aligns with their environmental values or simply feels like a meaningful, gentle way to return to the earth.
2. How Human Composting Works: Step by Step
Natural Organic Reduction blends ancient processes with modern ecological design. Here’s what typically happens at a licensed NOR facility:
2.1 Preparation and Placement
After death, the body is transported to the facility and prepared with great care. This usually includes gentle washing, biodegradable clothing or coverings, and any personal touches requested by the family. Embalming chemicals are never used.
The body is placed in a vessel—sometimes called a cradle or chamber—on a bed of organic materials selected to support healthy microbial activity and the ideal carbon-to-nitrogen balance.
2.2 Microbial Transformation Begins
Once the vessel is sealed, natural microbes begin their work in an oxygen-rich environment. Over the next 4–6 weeks, the vessel typically reaches 130–160°F, temperatures high enough to safely eliminate pathogens while keeping the process entirely natural.
No accelerants, no chemicals—just biology supported by expert oversight.
2.3 Monitoring and Turning
Throughout the process, experienced staff monitor the internal environment using sensors that track temperature, airflow, and moisture levels.
Some vessels rotate gently to ensure even aeration; others maintain airflow without turning. Policies vary by provider, and many offer updates or visitation options.
2.4 The Curing Stage
After the initial transformation, the material—now soil-like—is moved to a curing bin, similar to the “finishing” stage of garden compost. This allows the microbial community to stabilize and the temperature to return to ambient levels.
Curing typically lasts 2–6 weeks, after which the soil is screened. Any non-compostable materials (such as hip replacements or surgical screws) are returned to the family if desired.
2.5 The Final Soil
An individual’s remains generally produce one to three cubic yards of soil. Families may:
- Take all or part of the soil home
- Use it in gardens or memorial plantings (where legal)
- Donate it to conservation or reforestation projects
- Leave it entirely with the provider
The soil is nutrient-rich and can help restore forests, support new plant growth, or nourish protected natural spaces.
3. Environmental Benefits
Many people choose NOR because of its dramatically reduced environmental impact. Key benefits include:
3.1 Lower Carbon Footprint
Flame cremation requires significant fossil fuel use and emits CO₂ and particulate matter. NOR avoids this entirely and can save up to one metric ton of CO₂ per person.
3.2 No Embalming Chemicals
Traditional burial often involves formaldehyde-based embalming fluids, which can enter soil or groundwater. NOR eliminates this risk.
3.3 No Land Use or Concrete Vaults
NOR requires no burial plot, concrete vault, or long-term land maintenance—ideal for people in dense urban areas.
3.4 Soil Regeneration
Human composting produces something uniquely beneficial: clean, healthy soil that can support ecological restoration.
4. How NOR Compares to Other Eco Options
4.1 NOR vs. Natural Burial
Both return the body to the earth naturally, but differ in approach:
- Natural burial: Body is placed underground in a shroud or biodegradable casket.
- NOR: Occurs in a controlled, above-ground vessel.
NOR is often preferred by urban residents or those wanting a predictable, faster transformation.
4.2 NOR vs. Aqua Cremation (Alkaline Hydrolysis)
Both minimize environmental impact compared to flame cremation.
- Aqua cremation: Uses a water-based chemical process.
- NOR: Uses microbes and plant materials.
NOR also produces usable soil; aqua cremation does not.
4.3 NOR vs. Flame Cremation
Flame cremation generates emissions and relies on fossil fuels. NOR avoids both and offers a quieter, gentler alternative.
5. Legal Status: Where Human Composting Is Available
As of 2025, NOR is legal in a growing number of states, including:
- Washington
- Oregon
- Colorado
- California
- Vermont
- New York
- Nevada
- Minnesota
- Arizona
…and several more expected soon.
Availability is determined at the state level; we maintain an updated list on our State-by-State Info page.
6. Costs and Pricing
Human composting generally ranges from $5,000–$7,000, depending on location and provider. This places NOR between cremation and traditional burial.
Typical packages include:
- Transportation from place of death
- Vessel placement
- Monitoring and transformation
- Curing and soil preparation
- Soil return or donation
- Filing of paperwork
Additional fees may apply for:
- Long-distance transportation
- Ceremonies or visitation
- Soil shipping
- Funeral home partnerships
Always request clear itemization—transparency matters.
7. What Families Receive
7.1 Soil Return Options
Families may choose to:
- Receive all soil
- Share soil among relatives
- Donate some or all soil to restoration projects
Some families use the soil for memorial trees, native plant gardens, or quiet scatterings in natural settings.
7.2 Rituals and Ceremonies
Many providers offer optional ceremonies, such as:
- Home vigils before transfer
- On-site or virtual gatherings
- Tree-planting events
- Quiet reflection time
NOR is flexible and can accommodate traditional or nontraditional practices.
8. Common Questions & Misconceptions
Is it safe?
Yes. High internal temperatures naturally eliminate pathogens.
Does it smell?
No. Vessels are sealed and climate-controlled.
Is it respectful?
Absolutely. NOR facilities emphasize dignity, care, and ceremony.
What about medical implants?
They are removed and either returned to the family or recycled.
Is the soil safe?
Yes—NOR soil is tested, cured, and stable.
9. Is Human Composting Right for You?
NOR may be a good fit if you:
- Want an ecological, low-impact option
- Prefer something gentle and natural
- Live in an urban or suburban area
- Like the idea of contributing to soil health
- Want to avoid chemicals, vaults, and emissions
It may not be ideal if you:
- Prefer a traditional cemetery plot
- Follow a religious tradition that prohibits NOR
- Dislike soil-based metaphors or imagery
- Live in a state where NOR isn’t yet available
There is no single “right” choice—only what feels meaningful to you.
10. How to Choose a Provider
Ask questions such as:
- Are you fully licensed in this state?
- What is your all-inclusive cost?
- What are your soil return options?
- Do you offer ceremonies or visitation?
- Do you partner with funeral homes?
- How is transportation handled?
A reputable provider will answer clearly and without pressure.
11. Final Thoughts
Human composting represents a return to an old idea: that our bodies are part of the natural world, and that in death, we can nourish new life. Natural Organic Reduction offers simplicity, ecological responsibility, and a sense of renewal.
Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or for someone you love, we hope this guide helps illuminate a gentle, thoughtful path forward.
