Human Composting: An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Burial and Cremation
Sep 26, 2025 | Written by: | Share
On September 11, 2025, Governor Murphy signed into law legislative bills S3007/A4085, authorizing natural organic reduction, or what is commonly referred to as human composting. The legislation permits New Jersey funeral homes to offer this environmentally friendly alternative to burial and cremation.
With the passage of this law, New Jersey becomes the 14th state to permit human composting. The State of Washington was the first state to so authorize the practice in 2019.
Human composting is a process that transforms a body into nutrient-rich soil in about 30–60 days by placing it in a vessel with organic materials like wood chips, straw, and alfalfa. The resulting soil can be returned to the family for use in gardens or around trees, or can be used for conservation efforts.
The practice of human composting in New Jersey should begin within the next 10 months, as funeral homes become licensed and prepared to offer the service.
Some people choose human composting to help reduce carbon emissions, avoid toxic embalming chemicals, and conserve land. Should you wish to choose this option instead of cremation or burial, you should make your wishes known to your family. Additionally, you can make your wishes known in your Advanced Medical Directive.
If you would like assistance preparing an Advanced Medical Directive or other estate planning documents, please call my office at Gebhardt & Kiefer to schedule an appointment: 908-735-5161.
Eliot M. Goldstein, Esq., is a partner with Gebhardt & Kiefer, P.C. He concentrates his practices on wills, trusts, estate planning, estate administration, estate litigation, guardianships, real estate, business planning, and commercial law. Contact Mr. Goldstein at 908-735-5161 or via email.
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Any statements made herein are solely for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon or construed as legal advice.