Status of New YorkIn the United States, is authorized to make so-called human compost, Which would allow anyone in this area to decide to turn their body into soil after their death. This option is considered more eco friendly Compared to a traditional burial or cremation.
approved by the governor cathy hochulwhich on 31st January Signed legislation to legalize natural biological degradationNew York thus became the sixth state in the country to allow such a method of burial. washington It was the first to be legalized in 2019. After that Colorado why Oregon in 2021, and Vermont why California In 2022.
The body of the deceased is kept sealed for several weeks in a container with wood chips, alfalfa and straw. It has been left to rot. Photo: @recomposelife/Instagram
practice begins The body of the deceased is left sealed for several weeks in a container where wood chips, alfalfa and straw are placed. It is allowed to slowly decompose under the action of microbes. After a month in this state and a process of heating to eliminate any possible contamination, the relatives of the deceased receive the resulting soil.
This compost, which can be used to plant flowers, vegetables or trees, is equivalent to about 36 bags of soil. for american company combinedThe service can save a ton of carbon compared to traditional cremation or burial.
After a month in composting, the relatives of the deceased receive the resulting soil. Photo: @recomposelife/Instagram
At its cost, the firm combinedwhose plant is located seattledoes note Its $7,000 fee is “comparable” to other options. In 2021, the average price for a funeral with burial was projected to be US$7.848 or US$6.971 for cremation with cremation, according to National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA),
For defenders of human embalming, this method would not only be more environmentally friendly than traditional burials, which also consume wood, soil and other natural resources with a coffin, but also tIt would also be more practical in cities where space for cemeteries is limited.
On the other hand, its detractors have emerged, such as catholic conference of New York, a group that represents bishops in that state and has long opposed the new law, Since it says the method of burial is “improper”.