Ashes to ashes, corpse to #compost: #GreenWoodCemetery to offer ‘human composting’ starting in 2027

By Kirstyn Brendlen

"In pursuit of a more eco-friendly future, Green-Wood #Cemetery is going back to basics.

"Starting next year, the storied cemetery will offer a new burial option: 'natural organic reduction,' also known as human composting.

"The process is fairly similar to run-of-the-mill composting. Bodies are sealed in specialized 'pods' on a bed of hay, straw and alfalfa. The pods — designed to regulate moisture and airflow — rock gently back and forth to help speed decomposition.

"After just 40 days, the contents of the pod break down into roughly 160 pounds of nutrient-dense soil, which will be used to support Green-Wood’s many plants and trees. "

Learn more:
https://www.brooklynpaper.com/green-wood-cemetery-human-composting/

#SolarPunkSunday #GreenBurial #HumanComposting #NYC #BrooklynNY #CompostingHumanRemains

What is Natural Burial?

"A natural burial is a poignant return to the earth, allowing us to rejoin the cycle of life with minimal environmental impact. This practice is gaining momentum, driven by its simplicity, affordability, and profound respect for nature.

"The essence of a natural burial lies in its gentle approach to the earth. This method forgoes the use of chemical preservatives and non-biodegradable materials, choosing instead to employ biodegradable caskets or simple shrouds made from natural fibers. The interment process itself is mindful of the environment, favoring hand-dug graves over those made by machinery, thereby preserving the tranquility of the landscape.

"In contrast, a traditional burial can have a significant negative impact on the environment. Embalming fluids used to preserve the body can eventually release formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals into the soil and groundwater, along with harmful substances from the lacquered finish found on most caskets. And that doesn’t include the immense amount of energy and resources used every year to produce non-biodegradable caskets and burial vaults."

Learn more:
https://www.betterplaceforests.com/blog/natural-burials-101/

#SolarPunkSunday #Composting #NaturalBurials #GreenCemeteries #CompostingHumanRemains #ReturnToTheEarth