New Jersey just became the 14th state to legalize human composting, giving NJ residents an alternative to traditional burials or cremation.
Governor Phil Murphy signed the measure last week. It takes effect next year, allowing funeral homes and licensed facilities to prepare for offering human composting as a service.
Human composting, formally called natural organic reduction, transforms remains into nutrient-rich soil through a controlled process utilizing plant material. The option has gained ground in states such as Washington and Oregon, where companies like Earth Funeral already operate. It is seen as a sustainable alternative to a traditional burial.
Supporters of human composting say the practice is more sustainable than traditional methods and provides families with a tangible way to honor loved ones. Some use the resulting soil for gardens or memorial plantings.
The New Jersey Funeral Directors Association worked with lawmakers to draft the legislation and ensure proper regulation would be implemented. State officials will oversee licensing, inspections, and compliance once facilities open.
Advocates say the new law will prevent families searching for human composting options from having to transport remains across the country, which is burdensome and expensive. Funeral providers have indicated interest in expanding operations to the East Coast as an additional service offered to those grieving.
Since 2019, a growing list of states have legalized the practice. New Jersey is now the latest one.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.