Frequently Asked Questions about Human Composting

At Return Home, we are transforming the concepts of the cycle of life for the human body. Human composting is a relatively new concept for many. Because of that, we have assembled this list of frequently asked questions about human composting.

What Is Human Composting?

Human composting, also known as natural organic reduction or recomposition, is a process by which the remains of a deceased person are transformed into soil through the action of microbes.

Is Human Composting Legal?

Learning more about human composting shows that it is currently legal in the states of Washington, Colorado, Oregon, and Vermont. In other states, human composting is either being considered or is in the process of being regulated.

How Long Does Human Composting Take?

The exact length of time it takes for human composting to be completed depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the vessel, the temperature and moisture levels, and the composition of the organic material. In general, the process can take several weeks to a few months to complete.

About Human Composting: Is It Environmentally Friendly?

Human composting has the potential to be more environmentally friendly than traditional burial or cremation. It does not release harmful emissions into the air and uses fewer resources, as it does not require the use of a casket, grave liner, or cremation chamber. Additionally, the soil produced through the process can be used for landscaping or gardening, which can help to improve soil health and promote plant growth.

How Does Human Composting Compare to Cremation or Burial?

Getting into the details about human composting shows it is a more sustainable option than traditional burial or cremation in terms of resource use and environmental impact. Cremation requires the use of fossil fuels, which can release harmful emissions into the air, and traditional burial requires the use of a casket, grave liner, and other materials that may not be biodegradable. In contrast, human composting uses fewer resources and produces a useful byproduct in the form of soil.

Can the Soil Produced Through Human Composting be Used for Anything Specific?

The soil produced through human composting can be used for a variety of purposes, including landscaping and gardening. It is rich in nutrients and can help to improve soil health, making it well-suited for growing a variety of plants.

How Does Learning About Human Composting Differ from Traditional Composting?

Human composting is similar to traditional composting in that it involves the breakdown of organic material by microbes. However, there are some key differences between the two processes. Traditional composting typically involves the breakdown of plant matter, such as food scraps and yard waste, while human composting involves the breakdown of human remains.

How Do Families and Loved Ones Participate in the Process of Human Composting?

Families and loved ones can participate in the process of learning more about human composting by selecting a natural organic reduction provider and making arrangements for the composting of their loved

How Is the Process of Human Composting Regulated?

Human composting is regulated by state laws governing funeral practices and burial or cremation. In states where it is legal, natural organic reduction providers must meet certain standards and requirements to ensure the safety and integrity of the process.

Is Human Composting Safe?

Human composting is a safe process when performed by trained professionals in a controlled environment. It is designed to prevent the spread of any infectious diseases and to ensure the safety of the soil produced.

Can Human Composting Be Done with Cremated Remains?

Yes, human composting can be done with cremated remains. The process is similar to traditional human composting, but the remains are first ground into a fine powder before being placed in the composting vessel.

How Does the Cost of Human Composting Compare to Traditional Burial or Cremation?

The cost of learning about human composting and choosing it as an option may vary, but it is typically less expensive than traditional burial or cremation. It does not require the use of a casket, grave liner, or cremation chamber, which can significantly reduce costs.

Is Human Composting a Religious or Spiritual Practice?

Human composting is not necessarily a religious or spiritual practice, but it may be considered a more environmentally and socially responsible option for some individuals. It is up to each individual or family to decide what method of disposition aligns with their values and beliefs.

Can I Choose to Be Composted After I Die?

Yes, individuals can choose to be composted after they die by making arrangements with a natural organic reduction provider and including their wishes in their advance healthcare directives or funeral plans.

Can I Have a Memorial Service or Celebration of Life with Human Composting?

Yes, the thing about human composting is that many natural organic reduction providers offer options for memorial services or celebrations of life in conjunction with the composting process. These can be tailored to the individual’s preferences and may include elements such as music, readings, and the planting of a tree or other living memorial.

Is Human Composting a New Concept?

When you look more into the details about human composting, you will find that it is a relatively new concept in the funeral industry, but the principles of composting organic material have been around for centuries. The process of natural organic reduction has been in development for over a decade, and the first legal human composting facility opened in the state of Washington in 2020. Since then, human composting has grown more in terms of public awareness.

How Can I Learn More About Human Composting?

For more information about human composting, please contact Return Home. We are here for you and your loved one.