Glossary
What is human composting?
Human composting, formally called natural organic reduction, gently transforms a body into nutrient-rich soil over several weeks using organic material, warmth, and oxygen. Sometimes called terramation, it is an eco-friendly alternative to burial or cremation and is legal in a small but growing number of US states.
The body is placed in a vessel with materials such as wood chips, straw, and alfalfa. Microbes break everything down over roughly one to two months, producing about a cubic yard of soil that families can use or donate to conservation land.
Washington became the first state to legalize the practice in 2020, and several others have followed. Availability is still limited, so families sometimes transport remains to a state where it is offered.
Related terms
Green burial
Green burial, or natural burial, is burial that minimizes environmental impact by skipping embalming chemicals, metal caskets, and concrete vaults. The body is placed in a biodegradable casket or shroud so it can return naturally to the earth.
Disposition
Disposition refers to the final handling of a body — most commonly burial, entombment, cremation, or alkaline hydrolysis. The method of disposition is recorded on official paperwork and usually requires authorization from the legal next of kin.
Scattering
Scattering is the dispersal of cremated remains in a chosen place, such as a garden, the sea, or private land. Where you may scatter is governed by state and local rules and by property owners' permission, so families usually check before planning.
Common questions about Human composting
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This definition is general information, not legal or financial advice. Laws and prices vary by state and provider. See our editorial standards.