Chapter 1: A Shift in Burial Practices

How do we confront the inevitability of death? While concepts like reincarnation may offer solace, they often lack scientific grounding. Instead, consider embracing a perspective rooted in nature—returning to the cycle of life and becoming part of the earth once more. Traditional burial methods, long entrenched in human history, are evolving.

For millennia, humans have honored their dead with burial rituals, dating back to at least 60,000 BCE. However, significant shifts began occurring around the 1960s. At that time, a mere 3.6% of Americans opted for cremation. By the 1980s, this figure surged due to factors such as cost, the transient nature of modern families, and creative methods for honoring the deceased.

Currently, statistics reveal that 55% of Americans choose cremation, while fewer than 40% prefer traditional burial. Yet, a new transformation is on the horizon, suggesting a return to a more nature-centered approach.

Section 1.1: Alternatives to Traditional Burials

As the U.S. grapples with a shortage of cemetery space, innovative burial methods are becoming increasingly vital. The reliance on concrete, steel, and embalming fluids not only harms the environment but also contradicts the essence of life. Consequently, many individuals are now considering eco-friendly burial options that alleviate their deep-rooted anxieties surrounding death.

Among the emerging alternatives is the concept of transforming the deceased into an "eternal reef." One pioneering American company offers to convert cremated remains into a concrete structure designed to support marine life. Once submerged in the ocean, these structures attract algae and fish, creating a vibrant underwater habitat.

“Hello, I’m Mr. … I lived from … to … Now I’m under the sea,” reads the plaque placed alongside each reef.

Subsection 1.1.1: Composting as a New Burial Method

Another forward-thinking approach involves composting human remains. In Washington, a company has created a unique facility resembling a beehive, where bodies are placed in hexagonal cells. Covered with organic materials and beneficial bacteria, the remains decompose into nutrient-rich mulch, effectively becoming plant food.

Why is composting gaining traction?

Instead of the energy-intensive process of cremation, these sustainable burial methods utilize fewer resources and produce significantly lower carbon emissions. The average cremation consumes 28 gallons of fuel and emits 540 pounds of CO2, contributing to a staggering 250,000 tons of greenhouse gases annually.

If the entire population of Washington opted for composting rather than traditional methods, they could generate enough energy to power 54,000 homes for a year, according to Recompose. This environmentally conscious choice appeals to many who seek to leave a positive legacy.

Chapter 2: Legislative Changes and Cost Benefits

The first video, "Is human composting the future of death?" explores the growing trend of composting human remains and its potential to reshape our understanding of death.

In a groundbreaking move, a composting funeral home in Washington, D.C., successfully advocated for a change in the law. As of 2020, composting human remains is now legal, as these processes meet EPA standards for arsenic and lead. By December 2020, the facility welcomed its first candidate for composting.

Additionally, the financial implications are notable. Traditional funeral expenses range from $7,000 to $12,000, while cremation costs between $4,000 and $7,000. In contrast, the process of natural organic reduction is a more economical option at approximately $5,500.

The method itself is straightforward: place the remains in a hexagonal cell, add organic material and bacteria, and allow the decomposition process to occur over a month. The result is a rich mulch that can nourish the earth.

Once completed, families can choose to return the mulch to nature, or the company can transport it to a conservation area in Bells Mountain, Washington. This practice not only fulfills a practical need but also resonates with individuals seeking a spiritual connection to nature.

The second video, "Why Dead Humans Are Being Composted in America," provides further insight into this evolving trend and its implications for the future of burial practices.

In conclusion, as societal attitudes toward death continue to shift, we may witness a growing preference for sustainable and meaningful burial options. By embracing these innovative practices, individuals can find comfort in knowing that their remains will contribute to the cycle of life.