NJ Legalizes Human Composting: 'More Affordable,' Says Industry CEO

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New Jersey becomes 14th state to legalize human composting, offering an eco-friendly alternative that costs $3,300 less than traditional burial.

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Governor Murphy signed the bill September 11, 2025, with implementation in 10 months after regulations are established.

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The process transforms bodies into nutrient-rich soil using wood chips and organic materials in 30-60 days—no embalming chemicals needed.

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Each composting saves approximately 0.3 metric tons of CO2 compared to cremation, which releases 500 pounds of emissions per body.

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One cubic yard of soil is produced—enough to fill a pickup truck bed—which families can use for gardens or donate to conservation projects.

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This makes it much more affordable and accessible for East Coast residents," says Tom Harries, CEO of Earth Funeral.

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The soil undergoes safety testing after facilities maintain temperatures above 131°F for three days to eliminate pathogens.

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What happens to the soil? Families can keep some for memorial gardens, scatter it in meaningful places, or donate it to reforestation projects

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The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops opposes the practice, stating it "fails to satisfy the Church's requirements for proper respect for bodies.

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Currently no composting facilities exist on the East Coast, but companies are planning expansions following New Jersey's legalization.

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The law requires annual registration and inspection by both the State Board of Mortuary Science and Department of Environmental Protection.

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Would you choose to become soil that nourishes new plant life, or do you prefer traditional burial methods?

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