DOVER, Del. — The Delaware Senate gave final approval Thursday to a bill allowing the composting of human bodies as an alternative to burial or cremation.
The measure passed on a 14-7 vote and now goes to Democratic Gov. John Carney.
The legislation authorizes a practice called natural organic reduction, which is often referred to as human composting.
Human composting is currently legal in Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, California, New York and Nevada, and legislation has been introduced in more than a dozen other states.
Supporters of the practice say it is an environmentally friendly and less costly alternative to traditional burials and cremation that uses less energy and doesn’t involve the use of formaldehyde or the release of carbon dioxide and mercury into the atmosphere. They also say it will help reduce the amount of land needed for cemeteries and the amount of timber harvested for caskets.
Senate sponsor Laura Sturgeon said natural organic reduction is a “sophisticated process” that uses cutting-edge technology and engineering to accelerate the process of turning a human body into soil.
“This choice may not be for everyone, but we can respect those who wish to turn their bodies into soil by allowing this sustainable death care option to be available in Delaware,” Sturgeon said.
If the bill is enacted into law, state officials would have up to a year to develop specific regulations.
The organic reduction process involves putting a body into a large tank that also holds straw, wood chips or other natural materials for about 30 days. The human remains and organic materials would mix with warm air and be periodically turned until the body is reduced to a soil-like material that can then be given to the dead person’s family.
Under the bill, remains could not be accepted for composting if they contain radioactive implants, or if the person died as the result of a radiological incident. Also off-limits would be the remains of those suspected of having certain infections, such as the Ebola virus or diseases that can affect both animals and humans and lead to incurable neurodegenerative disorders, such as mad cow disease.
Testing in other states that allow the practice has found the resulting soil to be “high quality and regenerative,” according to bill supporters.
“That is completely safe for any use,” said Chris DiPietro, a lobbyist testifying in favor the bill. Some people use the soil from a loved one’s composting to plant a tree to remember them, he added.
Opponents suggested that human composting is disrespectful.
“I really have a tough time accepting the idea of composting a human body,” Sen. David Lawson said. “It just doesn’t comport with my upbringing, my religion and my belief that God designed us, and we deserve a bit more respect than being turned into tomato food.”
Delaware lawmakers have recently approved a groundbreaking bill that allows for human composting as an alternative to traditional burial and cremation. This decision makes Delaware the second state in the United States to legalize this environmentally-friendly method of disposition, following in the footsteps of Washington state.
Human composting, also known as natural organic reduction, involves placing a deceased person’s body in a vessel with organic materials such as wood chips, straw, and alfalfa. Over the course of several weeks, the body naturally breaks down into soil, which can then be used for planting trees or gardens. This process not only reduces the environmental impact of traditional burial and cremation, but also provides a sustainable way to return nutrients to the earth.
Supporters of human composting argue that it is a more eco-friendly option compared to burial, which often involves embalming fluids and non-biodegradable caskets that can harm the environment. Additionally, cremation releases harmful greenhouse gases and mercury into the atmosphere. Human composting, on the other hand, is a natural and sustainable way to return a person’s remains to the earth.
Opponents of human composting have raised concerns about the potential spread of pathogens and diseases through the composting process. However, advocates argue that strict regulations and guidelines will be put in place to ensure the safety and sanitation of the process.
The approval of human composting in Delaware reflects a growing trend towards more sustainable and environmentally-friendly end-of-life options. As people become more conscious of their impact on the planet, they are seeking alternative methods of disposition that align with their values.
In addition to human composting, other green burial options such as aquamation (water cremation) and conservation burial grounds are gaining popularity as people look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint even in death.
Overall, the approval of human composting in Delaware is a significant step towards more sustainable end-of-life practices. By offering this alternative to traditional burial and cremation, lawmakers are providing individuals with a choice that is not only environmentally-friendly but also honors the cycle of life and death in a natural and respectful way.
