Natural organic reduction gains legal status globally

Natural organic reduction (NOR), commonly known as human composting, is gaining legal recognition as an alternative to traditional burial and cremation. New South Wales, Australia, has become the first Australian state to adopt the practice.

In the United States, Washington state was the first to legalize NOR in 2019, followed by Colorado and Oregon. Since then, 11 additional states have permitted the process. The movement was pioneered in the U.S. by the Seattle-based company Recompose. Reports also indicate that NOR is legal throughout Sweden.

Proponents favor composting due to its lower environmental impact compared to the chemical use in embalming or the energy required for cremation. The process typically involves placing a body in a biodegradable container, such as a wicker or willow coffin, or using specialized technology like mushroom-based cocoons to facilitate natural decomposition.