# Legalization of human composting

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/legalization-of-human-composting
> Updated: 2026-10-23T18:11:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

The practice of natural organic reduction (NOR), or human composting, is gaining legal recognition as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation. In October 2026, New South Wales became the first Australian state to legalize the process through legislation introduced by independent MP Alex Greenwich. The method, legally termed “terramation,” involves breaking down a body with organic materials like sawdust and hay to produce soil for landcare or personal use, with specialized facilities expected to begin operations in 2028.

Globally, the movement has seen gradual expansion. In the United States, Washington state pioneered the practice in 2019, followed by Colorado, Oregon, and 11 other states. The process is also reported to be legal in Sweden. Proponents advocate for NOR due to its lower environmental impact compared to the energy consumption of cremation or the chemical use associated with embalming.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-23: Natural organic reduction gains legal status globally

Human composting, or natural organic reduction, is expanding globally, with New South Wales becoming the first Australian state to legalize the eco-friendly alternative to burial and cremation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/natural-organic-reduction-gains-legal-status-globally

### 2026-10-21: New South Wales passes laws legalizing human composting

New South Wales has passed Australian-first laws legalizing “terramation,” or human composting, with specialized facilities expected to begin operations in 2028.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-south-wales-passes-laws-legalizing-human-composting

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Cite as: Legalization of human composting. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/legalization-of-human-composting