CREF continues its groundbreaking webinar series on composting human remains

After airing webinars on Jan. 17 and April 18, the CREF team is now two-thirds through our series on Composting Human Remains. Fresh off the heels of the first-ever conference on human remains composting (held by Return Home in Tacoma, WA on Feb. 21) and the inception of the National Organic Reduction Association, we are excited to be on the forefront of this rapidly-changing topic which lies at the unique intersection between the composting and death care industries.

Through the guidance of innovators in this field—including founders and staff of the pioneer facilities composting human bodies, legislators working for constituents to access this end-of-life option, and researchers shaping the methods used—this series has offered a multifaceted perspective on the evolving landscape of human remains composting. This topic is particularly thought-provoking and emotional since the discussion has shifted from composting something to composting someone. Going beyond the distinct considerations already present in composting animal bodies, this process must also account for love and loss when handling a cherished spouse, parent, child, or friend. 

Although many were interested in this topic for the “how” of composting human remains, the “why” has become equally significant. Our presenters have brought forth many ideas to explore, including the psychological impact that different options for handling remains may have on death care workers; the value of personal choice in what happens to our bodies after death; and the best nomenclature to use in different situations: Human body composting? Natural organic reduction? Or perhaps terramation?

As many states consider relevant legislation, religious leaders make statements on their stances, and new businesses and processes are conceived to fulfill those seeking this option, this is truly a pivotal time for composting human remains. If you missed either of the first two webinars in this series, you can purchase access to Part 1: The Process & Its Challenges here, and a similar option for Part 2: The Current State of Affairs is coming soon; email education@compostfoundation.org for more details.

In our third and final session, coming in June, we’ll look toward the many unanswered questions, points of possible contention, and opportunities that exist for this movement.