Terramation
A New, Earth-Friendly Option for Final Farewell
At the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS), we aim to provide our members with comprehensive information about affordable and meaningful end-of-life options. One increasingly popular option gaining attention is terramation, also known as natural organic reduction (NOR) or human composting. This eco-friendly alternative aligns with the values of sustainability and offers a gentle return to the earth.
What is Terramation?
Terramation is a process that transforms a human body into nutrient-rich soil. It involves placing the body in a vessel with natural materials such as straw, alfalfa, and wood chips. Over a few months, with the right moisture, temperature, and airflow, beneficial microbes break down the body, leaving nutrient-dense compost. The result is about one cubic yard of soil, which can be returned to loved ones for use in gardens or donated to conservation projects.
How Does it Differ from Cremation or Burial?
While traditional burial and cremation have environmental impacts—such as the use of embalming chemicals, caskets, and high energy consumption—terramation offers a sustainable option by using a natural decomposition process. No chemicals or fossil fuels are needed, making it a carbon-conscious choice.
At the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS), we aim to provide our members with comprehensive information about affordable and meaningful end-of-life options. One increasingly popular option gaining attention is terramation, also known as natural organic reduction (NOR) or human composting. This eco-friendly alternative aligns with the values of sustainability and offers a gentle return to the earth.
What is Terramation?
Terramation is a process that transforms a human body into nutrient-rich soil. It involves placing the body in a vessel with natural materials such as straw, alfalfa, and wood chips. Over a few months, with the right moisture, temperature, and airflow, beneficial microbes break down the body, leaving nutrient-dense compost. The result is about one cubic yard of soil, which can be returned to loved ones for use in gardens or donated to conservation projects.
How Does it Differ from Cremation or Burial?
While traditional burial and cremation have environmental impacts—such as the use of embalming chemicals, caskets, and high energy consumption—terramation offers a sustainable option by using a natural decomposition process. No chemicals or fossil fuels are needed, making it a carbon-conscious choice.
Method |
Environmental Impact |
Process |
Timeframe |
Burial |
Uses land and embalming chemicals |
Body buried in a casket |
Several years to decompose |
Cremation |
Emits carbon and consumes fossil fuels |
Body reduced to ash by flame |
Few hours |
Terramation |
Carbon-neutral, creates nutrient soil |
Body composted with natural material |
60-90 days |
Why Choose Terramation?
Terramation is more than just an environmentally conscious option; it offers a meaningful way to give back to the earth. For those who have embraced eco-friendly lifestyles, terramation allows their final act to reflect these values. Families find comfort knowing that the soil created can nurture new life—such as gardens, trees, and flowers—providing an ongoing legacy.
Where is Terramation Available?
Currently, terramation is available in select regions, with licensed providers in states such as Washington and Colorado. As interest in Canada grows, providers may begin offering this service locally, and CMS will monitor developments to keep our members informed.
How to Incorporate Terramation into Your Planning
For those interested in including terramation in their end-of-life plans, it is important to communicate this choice with family and your executor. While terramation may not yet be widely available in Alberta, CMS encourages members to pre-plan their final wishes, ensuring clarity and peace of mind for loved ones.
At CMS, we are committed to exploring innovative options that align with our mission of providing affordable, respectful, and sustainable end-of-life choices. If terramation resonates with you, be sure to stay connected with us for updates on future availability and how it fits into our suite of funeral plans.
If you have questions or would like more information, feel free to contact us at [insert contact details]. Our team is here to help you explore the best options for your needs and values.
Terramation is more than just an environmentally conscious option; it offers a meaningful way to give back to the earth. For those who have embraced eco-friendly lifestyles, terramation allows their final act to reflect these values. Families find comfort knowing that the soil created can nurture new life—such as gardens, trees, and flowers—providing an ongoing legacy.
Where is Terramation Available?
Currently, terramation is available in select regions, with licensed providers in states such as Washington and Colorado. As interest in Canada grows, providers may begin offering this service locally, and CMS will monitor developments to keep our members informed.
How to Incorporate Terramation into Your Planning
For those interested in including terramation in their end-of-life plans, it is important to communicate this choice with family and your executor. While terramation may not yet be widely available in Alberta, CMS encourages members to pre-plan their final wishes, ensuring clarity and peace of mind for loved ones.
At CMS, we are committed to exploring innovative options that align with our mission of providing affordable, respectful, and sustainable end-of-life choices. If terramation resonates with you, be sure to stay connected with us for updates on future availability and how it fits into our suite of funeral plans.
If you have questions or would like more information, feel free to contact us at [insert contact details]. Our team is here to help you explore the best options for your needs and values.
