News Summary

Governor Brian Kemp has signed Senate Bill 241, legalizing human composting in Georgia, making it the 13th state in the U.S. to approve this eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation. The process, which turns human remains into nutrient-rich soil in 60 to 90 days, aligns with cremation laws and offers families a sustainable memorial option. Despite some religious opposition, interest in this method is growing, reflecting changing public sentiments about end-of-life choices.

Atlanta, Georgia — Effective July 1, Governor Brian Kemp has signed Senate Bill 241, legalizing human composting, also known as “organic human reduction” or “terramation,” in the state of Georgia. With this legislation, Georgia becomes the 13th state in the U.S. to permit human composting as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation methods.

Human composting is a process that accelerates the natural decomposition of human remains, turning bodies into nutrient-rich soil within 60 to 90 days. This innovative method utilizes a mixture of plant matter, such as straw and alfalfa, placed in a specially designed chamber to facilitate decomposition. In contrast to traditional burial, which can take years or even decades, human composting offers families a faster and potentially more environmentally friendly option.

The new law aligns the handling of composted remains with existing cremation laws, ensuring that the treatment of remains follows similar procedures. Families will have the option to utilize the composted soil for planting trees or creating gardens in memory of their loved ones, enriching the earth while providing a living tribute.

Individuals or businesses seeking to provide human composting services in Georgia must obtain a license to do so. Existing funeral homes and standalone facilities can apply for this license, ensuring that the practice meets state regulations. As interest in human composting grows, reports suggest that it may offer a cheaper alternative to cremation, with costs potentially starting at around $5,000.

Furthermore, the soil created from the composting process can be scattered in the ocean at least three miles offshore, offering another unique option for families. The soil generated is not only fertile but can also incorporate personal items contributed by families during the composting process.

There is a noteworthy trend of increasing interest in human composting for personal memorials, as indicated by professionals within the industry. Legislators, including Senator Rick Williams, who sponsored the bill, have proposed various creative uses for the composted soil, such as mixing it with paint or using it in fireworks displays.

While human composting presents an innovative solution for end-of-life choices, it is important to note that it differs from traditional natural burials, which generally involve biodegradable caskets or shrouds but do not accelerate the decomposition process as terramation does. Additionally, the energy requirements for human composting are comparatively minimal, making it a more energy-efficient option than cremation.

Despite its advantages, some religious organizations, including the Catholic Church and certain Orthodox Jewish communities, have expressed opposition to human composting. As discussions around human composting continue, there is a trend of bipartisan support for similar legislation across other states nationwide, indicating a growing acceptance of this practice.

Prior to the passage of this law, residents of Georgia who wished to pursue human composting had to transport their loved ones to states on the West Coast that allowed the practice. With the legalization of human composting in Georgia, families now have a local option that considers both environmental impacts and personal significance.

The arrival of human composting in Georgia signals a shift toward more sustainable end-of-life options, catering to an evolving public sentiment about burial practices. As the formal processes become established, the state looks to embrace this progressive method while ensuring appropriate regulations are in place.