News Summary

Governor Brian Kemp has signed a new law making human composting, also known as terramation, legal in Georgia starting July 1. This legislation allows funeral homes to establish composting facilities locally, reducing transportation costs for families. The process involves natural decomposition of human remains with organic materials, resulting in nutrient-rich soil that families can use for planting. While supporters praise the environmental benefits, some critics raise concerns about health and dignity. Overall, this law marks a significant shift in end-of-life care in the state.

Atlanta, Georgia – A new law signed by Governor Brian Kemp will make human composting, also known as terramation, legal in Georgia, effective July 1. This will position Georgia among the 13 states in the U.S. to permit this environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation methods.

The new legislation allows funeral homes and businesses to set up composting facilities within the state, thereby eliminating the need to transport bodies to locations on the West Coast where human composting was previously accessible. This change is expected to lower costs for families interested in this eco-friendly disposal option, as they will no longer incur transportation fees associated with out-of-state composting services.

Human composting accelerates the natural decomposition process by combining human remains with organic materials such as wood chips, alfalfa, and straw. The outcome of this method is nutrient-rich soil, which can be utilized by families for planting or conservation efforts, allowing a meaningful, lasting tribute to their loved ones.

There has been a noticeable increase in interest surrounding human composting, as evidenced by funeral directors like Michelle Arivette, who reported rising questions from families about this method of afterlife care. Arivette’s funeral home has formed a partnership with Recompose, a pioneering company with one of the first human composting facilities in the United States, to provide these services.

The human composting process involves wrapping the deceased in a biodegradable shroud and placing them in a vessel filled with organic materials. Families can engage in “laying ceremonies” where they can personalize the experience by including items like flowers and letters, adding a unique and personal touch to the process.

Supporters of the legislation, including Recompose’s founder Katrinia Spade, have praised the bill for its ecological benefits, especially its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that typically arise from cremation practices. Funeral directors throughout the state have also voiced their support for the law, highlighting its potential to offer safer and more sustainable end-of-life options for their clients.

However, there are critics of the human composting method, including concerns about potential disease transmission. Companies offering composting services have committed to refusing bodies that are known to be deceased from specific infectious diseases, thereby addressing some of these health-related concerns. Additionally, objections have come from the Catholic Church, which has expressed apprehension regarding the dignity of the human body and the principles surrounding its disposal.

While the price for human composting may reach over $5,000, it is largely comparable to traditional cremation costs, making it a viable option for many families. The legal recognition and regulatory guidelines set forth by the new law will help establish composting facilities in Georgia and streamline the process for funeral directors looking to provide such services.

Looking ahead, Micah Truman, founder of Return Home, has expressed plans to open a composting facility in Atlanta, underscoring the significance of fostering more meaningful connections within the community regarding end-of-life practices. Earth Funeral, which already operates composting facilities in Washington and Nevada, has also shown support for the move towards greener alternatives for final arrangements.

Despite the promising outlook on the integration of human composting in Georgia, various logistical and social considerations must be addressed as the state prepares for a transition towards this method of body disposition. The upcoming law could mark a significant shift in how communities view and manage death, allowing for a more sustainable and nourishing approach to end-of-life care.