As seen in NJ.com: Would You Turn Your Body Into Garden Soil? Human Composting is Coming to N.J.

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NJ.com

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July 27, 2025

New Jersey moves closer to legalizing human composting as legislation awaits Governor Murphy's signature, while residents already choosing the sustainable option are finding comfort in the process.

"For me, it's a wonderful feeling. He had been sick for a while, so we spent quite a lot of time in the house the last few years just us. So, with the compost here and the plants just thriving, it's comforting," said Dianne Thompson-Stanciel of Tinton Falls, whose late husband's remains were transformed into soil through Earth Funeral's process.

In NJ.com, reporter Jackie Roman explores how New Jersey is poised to become the 14th state to legalize human composting, with bipartisan legislation passing both chambers with overwhelming support.

The piece examines the personal experiences of New Jersey residents who have already chosen soil transformation, including Thompson-Stanciel's who chose this process for her husband.

The article highlights the environmental benefits of human composting compared to traditional burial and cremation.

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Takeaways

  • Legislative Success: Bill passed with broad bipartisan support, with only 3 of 120 lawmakers voting against legalization
  • Cost Effectiveness: Total process costs beats median funeral cost ($8,300) and cremation cost ($6,280)
  • Environmental Impact: Traditional burial produces 250 lbs CO2 emissions, cremation produces 419 lbs, while human composting creates nutrient-rich soil
  • Industry Growth: Earth Funeral aims to eliminate cross-country shipping by opening regional facilities as more states legalize the practice

Read the article at NJ.com

"For me, it's a wonderful feeling. With the compost here and the plants just thriving, it's comforting."