Natural Organic Reduction
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Natural Organic Reduction

Alternative Disposition
Home Resources Alternative Disposition Natural Organic Reduction

Natural Organic Reduction

Natural Organic Reduction (NOR), sometimes referred to as “human composting,” or “Terramation” is defined as “the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil.” This process uses large tanks, containers, or similar vessels to hold human remains together with straw, wood chips, and/or other natural materials for a period of about four to six weeks.

Included below are a multitude of additional resources on the topic of green burial offered by NFDA and other organizations. 

  • The body is placed in a container along with organic materials like wood chips, straw, and alfalfa.
  • Over several weeks, microbial activity breaks down the body, transforming it into nutrient-rich soil.
  • NOR is legal in some regions but it is gaining popularity as an eco-friendly option.

Statistics/Reports

States with Legalized NOR (as of 10.8.2024)
2024 NFDA Cremation & Burial Report
This report is available at no cost to NFDA members and $175 for non-member.

NFDA Educational Offerings

  • On Demand Courses
  • Webinars

Brush with Death Podcast

  • Man…Made Mulch

Conferences

  • 2023 Consumer Trends Conference

Other Resources

Delaware Approves Natural Organic Reduction
Natural Organic Reduction/Human Composting

Alternative Disposition
  • Alkaline Hydrolysis
  • Cremation
  • Green Burial
  • Natural Organic Reduction
  • Nurture Our Nature

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The National Funeral Directors Association is the world’s leading, largest and most trusted association to support funeral professionals. We provide our members with critical information, innovative tools, resources and the professional community they need to serve families, run sustainable businesses and become pillars in their communities.

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