Human composting is an environmentally-friendly alternative to cremation and traditional burial. Over a 45-day process, a body is gently transformed into nutrient-rich soil. It is sometimes referred to as terramation, natural organic reduction or soil transformation.
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Families choose how much soil they’d like returned - to scatter or plant - and the remainder is sent to local conservation sites where it’s used for land restoration projects, such as reforestation and growing trees. The process returns the nutrients in our bodies to the natural world, and helps protect the planet for future generations.
Human composting is not currently legal in North Carolina.
The process has a significant number of supporters across the US. Human composting could be legalized in North Carolina in the coming years, if current trends continue.
Currently, human composting is legal in several states and bills are progressing in a number of other states. For a full and up-to-date breakdown of the legal status in different states, check our legislation tracker
While there are currently no human composting facilities in Illinois, Earth works with families throughout the country.
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In partnership with local funeral homes, Illinois residents can transport loved ones to the nearest Earth facility.
