Replace fire with the gentle work of nature.
An affordable alternative to cremation that gently turns bodies into soil.
Over 9,000 families served
Replace fire with the gentle work of nature.
As featured in:
Return to nature
Return to nature
Soil transformation is a natural, eco-friendly alternative to burial and cremation. Over six weeks, the body is gently transformed into nutrient-rich soil that can be used to create memorial gardens, restore ecosystems, or spread in your favorite places.
Return to nature
How it works
We've simplified the process to focus on what matters most.
1. Make arrangements
Whether you need our services now, or are planning ahead, you can make arrangements online, in person, or by phone at (877) 327-4109. Our Care Team is here to help at any step.
2. Soil transformation
When the time comes, we'll bring you or your loved one into our care. Over 45 days, a gentle transformation into soil takes place in a custom, private vessel at our state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring a personal, dignified journey.
3. Return to nature
The process creates about one cubic yard of nutrient-rich soil. Choose how much you'd like returned for gardening, spreading, or for memorial spaces. The remaining soil goes to our dedicated conservation lands.
Your questions, answered
Can I use my existing cremation policy with Earth Funeral?
Yes. Most cremation and pre-need policies are designed to fund a qualifying end-of-life service and are often transferable.
We help you:
- Review your policy benefits
- Confirm what is transferable
- Apply those funds directly toward Earth Funeral
You keep the value you’ve already invested, while choosing the approach that aligns with your values.
What’s the difference between flame cremation and Earth Funeral?
Flame cremation uses fire to reduce the body to ash quickly. It’s fast, familiar, and functional.
Soil transformation uses a carefully managed natural process instead of flame. Over several weeks, the body is gently transformed into nutrient-rich soil. It delivers the same simplicity families expect, but with gentler care and a more meaningful return.
Both are simple and affordable. The difference is in the method and the outcome, ash versus living soil.
How does soil transformation compare environmentally to cremation?
Flame cremation relies on combustion, which releases:
- Carbon emissions
- Particulates
- Smoke
Soil transformation avoids combustion entirely and:
- Uses 100% renewable energy
- Requires minimal water
- Supports ecological restoration by returning nutrient-rich soil
Instead of producing emissions and ash, families receive soil that can nourish gardens, forests, and conservation projects.
How does soil transformation support surviving loved ones?
Cremation happens quickly. Grief does not.
Soil transformation unfolds over several weeks, giving families space to gather, plan, and reflect.
When the soil is returned, families often feel:
- More emotionally steady as time unfolds
- More prepared to create a meaningful memorial
- More supported by the natural pace of the process
The process is designed to feel gentle, intentional, and supportive.
How does Earth Funeral compare in cost to cremation?
According to the NFDA’s 2023 General Price List Study, the national median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,280.
That total often includes multiple bundled services and additional fees, including ones families don’t need.
Earth Funeral offers one transparent price that includes transportation, care, documentation, the full soil transformation process, and return of the soil.
No unexpected add-ons, transportation fees, or facility fees.
Just complete, end-to-end care.
Here when you need us
Immediate need
For families who have recently lost a loved one.
Imminent need
For families expecting a loved one to pass in the next 6 months.
Earth Prepaid
For individuals and couples planning for the future.
How To Use Your Soil
Our Roots
Our team brings together decades of experience in funeral care and environmental science to offer a thoughtful, sustainable alternative. We treat each family with empathy, understanding, and careful attention.
Through steady guidance and support, we help families transform loss into a legacy of renewal.
2,300+ five-star reviews
Families across the country have chosen Earth Funeral as a more natural alternative.
“Through the extensive caring given to every aspect of of their service, Earth is the epitome of giving back. I have and will continue to spread the good news of the work Earth does ... I encourage all to plan ahead as I am doing. Thank you Earth!”
"I prefer not to be put in a box and put in the ground to do what? Burning or cremation is only pollution. That is my belief."
"I didn’t want to burden the Earth with my remains by using cremation, which is extremely expensive to the Earth."
"Peaceful way to decompose your body. Cremation is too violent. Also, I like the idea of living on as a tree."
“So much space is being used to bury people in the traditional way in caskets. The idea of being cremated simply did not appeal to me at all. When I heard that Earth was a totally different alternative and one that is the best choice for our environment I knew immediately it was what I was searching for. I have felt nothing but peace knowing I have chosen the right path for myself and, at the same time, helping our earth continue to survive for future generations to come.”
“So much space is being used to bury people in the traditional way in caskets. The idea of being cremated simply did not appeal to me at all. When I heard that Earth was a totally different alternative and one that is the best choice for our environment I knew immediately it was what I was searching for. I have felt nothing but peace knowing I have chosen the right path for myself and, at the same time, helping our earth continue to survive for future generations to come.”
