Human Composting Funeral: A New, Natural Way to Say Goodbye

What Is Human Composting?
Human composting — also known as natural organic reduction (NOR) — is a new, eco-friendly method of laying our loved ones to rest.
Instead of traditional burial or cremation, this process gently transforms the human body into soil over a 30–45 day period, using natural elements like wood chips, alfalfa, and straw.
It’s not just a method.
It’s a philosophy:
“Return to the earth with grace. Leave no harm behind.”
How Does Human Composting Work?
After death, the body is placed in a vessel filled with organic material.
Airflow, temperature, and moisture are carefully regulated to allow natural microbial activity to break the body down into clean, usable soil.
At the end of the process, the family receives the nutrient-rich soil, which they can:
- Use to plant a tree
- Scatter in a meaningful location
- Donate to conservation projects
The result?
No embalming fluid, no concrete vault, no carbon-heavy cremation.
Just a clean return to nature.
Where Is It Legal?
As of 2025, human composting is legal in several U.S. states:
- Washington
- Oregon
- California
- Colorado
- New York
- Vermont
More states are considering legislation as demand rises and environmental concerns grow.
Why People Choose It
People who choose human composting often care about:
- Environmental sustainability
- Reducing their carbon footprint
- Avoiding toxic chemicals and non-biodegradable materials
- Creating life after death — literally
It also costs less than a traditional funeral.
Depending on the provider, it ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, making it an affordable and meaningful option.
What About Ceremony and Mourning?
Just because the process is different doesn’t mean there’s less love.
Families still hold beautiful memorial services — in gardens, forests, or at home.
And many choose to include a flower tribute that reflects simplicity, beauty, and rebirth.
How Rest in Blooms Supports Green Funerals
At Rest in Blooms, we offer floral arrangements specifically designed for green and human composting funerals.
These include:
- Biodegradable wrapping
- Seasonal, pesticide-free flowers
- Soft, respectful color palettes
- Personal notes and symbolic blooms
Whether you're honoring someone who chose this path, or simply looking for a more gentle, earth-conscious tribute — we are here to help.
👉 Explore Green Funeral Flowers
Final Thoughts
Human composting is not just about the end of life.
It’s about how we live, what we leave behind, and how we return.
It is quiet, powerful, and deeply respectful.
For those who want to give back to the earth, even in death —
this may be the most natural goodbye.
Funeral Flowers, Gracefully Handcrafted & Delivered Free
With seamless coordination and trusted local florists, we ensure every tribute is thoughtfully crafted and delivered with care—right where it’s needed, when it matters most.