Natural Organic Reduction: A Gentle Return to the Earth
An Alternative Method of Disposition
Natural Organic Reduction (NOR), also known as human composting, is a sustainable, environmentally conscious alternative to traditional burial or cremation. It transforms human remains into nutrient-rich soil through a natural, accelerated process of decomposition. Goes Funeral Care is now offering
this service to our client families with our partnering firm, Earth Funeral, in
Auburn Washington, a suburb of Seattle and near the Sea Tac airport.
How the Process Works
Over a 45-day process, one's body is gently transformed into a cubic-yard of nutrient-rich soil. This is simply an accelerated process of what might occur in nature for a green burial. But this allows some flexibility as to where the remains can have their final resting place. Remains can be divided and/or used for planting a memorial tree or plant. Families choose how much soil they would like returned and the remainder is donated to local conservation projects in Washington State for land restoration initiatives. This method of disposition is for those who want to be environmentally conscious about end of life decisions.
Options for Memorialization
You may have the option of a public or private viewing
or a service with your loved one's body present to honor their life. This would all be completed before
being transported via aircraft to Earth Funeral in Auburn, Washington. There are options for memorialization after the soil transformation process has occurred.
How the Process Works
1. Preparation: The body is placed in a biodegradable shroud and then in a reusable vessel with organic material - mulch, woodchips and wild flowers
2. Transformation: Over 45 days, natural microbial activity reduces the body to soil.
3. Curing: The soil is allowed to rest and stabilize for a few more weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the process respectful and regulated? Yes. Earth Funeral's facility operates under strict Washington State guidelines and licensure to ensure dignity, safety, and environmental standards. Washington State was the first to approve this process in the US.
Can families participate or witness the process? In many cases, families are welcome to be involved in ceremonial ways, similar to traditional funerals or cremations.
What happens to the soil? It can be returned to the family or donated to natural land restoration projects.
