Terramation vs. Human Composting vs. Natural Organic Reduction: What’s the Difference?
If you've researched sustainable alternatives to conventional burial and flame cremation, you've probably encountered terramation, human composting, natural organic reduction (NOR), and soil transformation or reduction.
All of these terms generally describe the same process: using natural decomposition in a controlled environment to transform human remains into compost (while you’ll sometimes hear the end result described as “soil,” compost is the more accurate term).
So, why are there so many names for it? Some terms are used in laws and regulations, while others have emerged as a branded term, or as a way make the process easier to talk about. Here’s how term relates to each other.
What Is Human Composting?
Human composting is the most common term for the process of using controlled natural decomposition to transform a body into nutrient-rich compost that can be returned to the earth.
The body is placed in a vessel along with organic materials, such as wood chips, straw, or alfalfa. While inside the vessel, temperature, moisture, and oxygen are monitored and managed to support the natural decomposition process.
Over several weeks or months (the timing depends on the system used), the body and organic materials are transformed into a compost.
Human composting is the most recognizable term for the process, particularly in news coverage. However, it isn’t the only term you’ll encounter.
What Is Natural Organic Reduction (NOR)?
Natural organic reduction, abbreviated as NOR, is the more formal term for the process of human composting.
The name describes what is happening during the process: human remains are naturally reduced through decomposition. Natural organic reduction is also the terminology commonly found in state laws and regulations.
Is natural organic reduction the same as human composting?
Yes. Natural organic reduction is the formal name for human composting.
While the exact equipment and procedures can vary among providers, someone researching natural organic reduction and someone researching human composting are looking for the same offering.
What Is Terramation?
Terramation is another term used to describe the transformation of human remains into compost through natural organic reduction.
The term was developed and trademarked by Return Home, LifeSource’s terramation partner. The word draws from terra, meaning earth or land, and focuses on the end result of the process: returning the body's organic material to the earth.
For some people, the term terramation better reflects the intention behind choosing this option. While “human composting” provides a straightforward comparison to a familiar natural process, terramation emphasizes transformation and a return to the earth.
Is terramation the same as human composting?
Yes. Terramation refers to the process of human composting, also formally known as natural organic reduction.
The terminology may differ depending on the funeral provider, state regulations, or resource, but the terms generally refer to the same underlying process.
What is soil transformation?
Soil transformation is another phrase sometimes used to describe human composting or natural organic reduction. It aims to describe the transformation that takes place as the body and organic materials decompose.
While the finished material is sometimes referred to as “soil,” compost is the more accurate term.
Frequently Asked Questions About Human Composting
Is terramation the same as human composting?
Yes. Terramation and human composting are terms used for the process formally known as natural organic reduction, or NOR.
Is soil transformation the same human composting?
Yes. Soil transformation is yet another term to describe human composting, terramation, and natural organic reduction.
Is human composting the same as natural organic reduction?
Yes. Human composting is the common term, while natural organic reduction is the more formal term used in legislation and regulation.
What does NOR stand for?
NOR stands for natural organic reduction, the process that uses controlled biological decomposition to transform human remains into soil.
Is human composting legal in California?
California has legalized natural organic reduction as a form of human disposition. However, the first facilities in California are not expected to begin operating until 2027. LifeSource partners with Return Home in Auburn Washington.
What happens to the compost after terramation?
Options vary by provider. LifeSource works with Return Home because families have an option to receive compost for their own use, and any remaining compost is donated for conservation projects.
Different Names for a Return to the Earth
Human composting, terramation, natural organic reduction, NOR, or soil transformation are all terms that describe an approach to deathcare centered around natural decomposition, using less energy compared to options like cremation or burial, and returning to the earth with less impact.
