What To Do With a Loved One’s Soil After Human Composting
Human composting, often called natural organic reduction, is a newer end-of-life option in which a loved one’s body is converted into something a rich soil in a process similar to the natural lifecycle.
A loved one’s body is placed in a special composting vessel with organic mulch, woodchips and wildflowers. After the vessel is sealed, naturally occurring microorganisms gently break down the body, transforming it into soil in about 45 days.
As of December 2024, human composting was legal in 12 states. Human composting may appeal to those seeking an alternative to traditional burial or cremation, as it allows a loved one’s body to be returned to the earth. There may not be providers in every state where it’s legal, but select Dignity Memorial locations in some states offer human composting services.
If your loved one chose human composting as their end-of-life arrangement (or you chose it for someone you love), you may wonder what to do with the soil you get back, how to store it and where it can be used. These frequently asked questions about human composting and the soil that results will help.
- How much soil will be returned?
- What can I do with the soil?
- Is the soil from human composting good for plants and trees?
- How should the soil be stored?
- How long can I store the soil?
- What should I do with the soil containers?
- Can I mix the soil with the ashes of another loved one?
- Are there laws about scattering human composting soil?
- Can I donate human composting soil to environmental projects?
How much soil will be returned?
During the composting process, about 300 pounds, or a half cubic yard, of soil is created. Though you can opt to take home all of a loved one’s soil, most families don’t. One to five 32-ounce containers of soil is typically what a family takes home. For most, 300 pounds of soil is too much to manage.
When you choose a Dignity Memorial provider, the soil you don’t take home is placed in a reforestation project. Where exactly depends on the state in which the services are provided.
What can I do with the soil?
The choice of what to do with the soil is a personal one, and it comes down to what feels right for you and your family. Many families treat a loved one's soil like ashes. They may divide it among family members who keep it at home or scatter or bury it in a personally meaningful place.
Is the soil from human composting good for plants and trees?
The soil created through human composting is safe and beneficial for the environment. When returned to the earth, it provides essential nutrients that help plants and trees grow and thrive.
How should the soil be stored?
Small amounts of soil are returned to families in biodegradable containers. We recommend you store the containers in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to place it.
How long can I store the soil?
It’s best to use the soil within two weeks of getting it back. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the soil or dry it by spreading it in a 1-to-2-inch layer on a tray and leaving it in the sun for a few hours.
What should I do with the soil containers?
The soil will be delivered in containers that are biodegradable and compostable. Once you're finished with the provided containers, they can be easily recycled.
Can I mix the soil with the ashes of another loved one?
Soil can be combined with ashes. This popular option allows family members to be remembered and honored in the same location, even if they passed at different times.
Are there laws about scattering human composting soil?
Human compost soil can be scattered on any private property as long as you have permission from the landowners. It’s also possible to scatter soil in public areas, but you’ll need to check with local authorities first to learn if and where scattering is permitted.
Can I donate human composting soil to environmental projects?
Yes, in many cases, you can donate human composting soil to environmental projects, though it often depends on local regulations and the specific project’s needs. Some families choose to contribute the nutrient-rich soil to reforestation efforts or land conservation projects as a way to create a positive environmental impact. It’s a meaningful way to honor a loved one by supporting ecosystems and giving back to the earth in a sustainable and life-affirming way. If this interests you, ask your human composting provider for recommendations.
Composting services are provided by Earth Funeral Group. Services are available in only a few states, not including California.