Human Composting vs. Cremation: An Eco-Friendly Comparison

Over the last decade, cremation has steadily increased in popularity, surpassing burial as the most common funeral option in the United States. But now, a new, more environmentally friendly alternative is emerging: human composting. Instead of turning remains into ash, this process transforms the body into nutrient-rich soil that can be returned to nature.

Both cremation and human composting are more affordable alternatives to traditional burial and result in remains that can be scattered or kept for different types of memorialization. But these two methods differ significantly in their process and impact on the environment.

As more people consider sustainable end-of-life choices, human composting is gaining attention for its natural and peaceful approach to returning to the earth. Soil from human composting is rich in nutrients; it can help restore local ecosystems and nurture new life for generations. Those who feel connected to nature may be comforted by this return to the natural world.

Choosing a funeral method is a deeply personal decision that is often made during a difficult time. Below, we’ll break down both options, so you can make an informed decision about which method is right for you or your loved ones.

How does cremation work?

Cremation uses fuel and intense heat, between 1400-2100ºF, to reduce a body to ash.

Prior to cremation, the body is cared for by a funeral home, where it may be draped in a sheet or clothed in an outfit chosen by the family. The body is then placed in a combustible container, such as a wood or cardboard casket.

Once prepared, the body is placed in the cremation chamber, which is sealed before the temperature is increased and the process begins. The cremation process typically takes between two to three hours.

For families, there are options to witness or be present at the time of cremation. Some funeral homes provide a viewing window or offer a dedicated space where loved ones can gather during the process.

After cremation, the ashes are returned to the family, typically within a few days. These can be scattered, stored in an urn, or incorporated into various types of memorials.

How does human composting work?

Human composting, also known as natural organic reduction, is a newer process offered by specialized providers like Earth Funeral.

First, the body is placed in a vessel containing natural, organic materials such as wood chips, mulch, and wildflowers. Through a careful balance of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, and water, along with the optimization of moisture and temperature, the body is carefully broken down by microbes.

This transformation takes about 45 days, after which the body is fully converted into nutrient-rich soil. Families can choose to keep the soil or donate it to conservation efforts, helping to restore ecosystems and nurture new growth.

Which is greener: Cremation or human composting?

Human composting, compared to cremation, has a much smaller ecological footprint.

Cremation relies on fossil fuels and emits over 600 lbs of CO2 per body. When considering the millions of deaths every year in the United States, cremation can be a significant contributor to climate change.

In addition to carbon emissions, cremation releases harmful pollutants such as mercury and fine soot into the atmosphere, making it less eco-friendly. Mercury emitted into the atmosphere can travel thousands of miles, and may have toxic effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, and on lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes.

Human composting, on the other hand, is a much greener option. Human composting is powered entirely by renewable energy and generates no emissions. Instead, it produces nutrient-dense soil that can store carbon and support plant growth. By returning to the earth in this way, human composting contributes to the health of our environment rather than depleting it.

Memorialization options after human composting and cremation

Both cremation and human composting allow for flexible and personal ways to memorialize a loved one. The key difference is that human composting produces alive, healthy, nutrient-rich soil which can actively contribute to recycling of nutrients through the ecological life cycle.

After cremation, ashes are stored in an urn to be returned to a family. They can then be scattered on land or at sea, with some regulations about how and where. Families can scatter ashes on private land (with permission) or at sea, as long as it’s at least three nautical miles from shore.

Memorialization after human composting typically involves a return to nature. After the process is complete, families can choose how much soil they would like to bring home with them. This soil can be used to plant a garden, nurture trees, or scatter in a favorite outdoor space. At Earth Funeral, all remaining soil is donated to conservation projects, such as reforestation efforts in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula or California's Sierra Foothills.

At Earth Funeral, we’ve witnessed many heartfelt and creative ways families have honored their loved ones using the soil from human composting. From planting memorial trees to starting community gardens, these stories highlight the deep connection between human composting and the natural world. We document many of these in our “Lasting Legacies” series, celebrating the beautiful ways soil transformation can keep loved ones close to nature.

The Natural Choice

For those who feel a connection to the earth, human composting offers a profound sense of peace. Gardeners, nature lovers, conservationists, and those dedicated to environmental sustainability often find comfort in the idea of their remains nurturing new life.

As awareness of sustainable end-of-life choices grows, human composting is becoming more widely available and accessible, allowing individuals to leave behind a legacy that supports the planet. Choosing human composting is not only a personal decision, but a commitment to protecting the natural world for future generations.

To learn more about Earth Funeral’s human composting services or to receive a quote for services now or in the future, visit our website today.