Recompose

Recompose Logo

Recompose is a process of human composting, also known as natural organic reduction, which transforms human remains into soil. This environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation was pioneered by the company Recompose, founded by Katrina Spade in Seattle, Washington.

History

The concept of human composting was developed by Katrina Spade during her graduate studies in architecture. Inspired by the natural decomposition process, she envisioned a system that could offer a sustainable and ecological method for handling human remains. In 2014, Spade founded the company Recompose to bring this vision to reality.

Process

The Recompose process involves placing the deceased in a reusable vessel filled with organic materials such as wood chips, alfalfa, and straw. Over the course of about 30 days, microbial activity breaks down the body into soil. The resulting soil can then be used to enrich conservation land, forests, or gardens.

Legal Status

Recompose's human composting process was first legalized in the state of Washington in 2019. Since then, other states have begun to consider and pass similar legislation, allowing for the practice to expand.

Environmental Impact

Human composting is considered to be a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional burial and cremation. It uses less energy, produces fewer carbon emissions, and avoids the use of toxic embalming fluids. The process also contributes to soil health and can help sequester carbon.

Recompose Facility

The first Recompose facility opened in Seattle in 2020. The facility is designed to be a welcoming and serene space where families can participate in the process if they choose. The facility also offers services such as memorial ceremonies and grief support.

Related Pages

• Human composting
• Natural organic reduction
• Katrina Spade
• Seattle
• Washington (state)
• Environmental impact of death care

See Also

• Green burial
• Cremation
• Burial