Oregon could become second state to allow human composting

Oregon is known for being environmental friendly and implementing plans that have a positive impact on the environment, like recycling. 

It is quite possible that Oregon takes these commitments to the next level. State lawmakers are considering a bill that, if passed, would allow human composting as an alternative to traditional burial or cremation. 

“House bill 2574, sponsored by representatives Pam Marsh and Brian L. Clem, would allow bodies to be disposed of by alternative processes, including natural organic reduction — colloquially known as human composting. It also clarifies rules surrounding alkaline hydrolysis, known as aqua cremation, and extends other funeral industry privileges and responsibilities to include reduction.” 

As of Monday, close to 100 people submitted written testimony in favor of the bill, with most of them citing environmental reasons. Apparently, composting is more resourceful as it uses less energy than cremation and traditional burials “involve harsh chemicals and take up land.” 

If the bills is passed, Oregon will be the second state to allow human composting (Washington being the first). 

See Hannah Ray Lambert, Oregon could become second state to allow human composting, KOIN, March 2, 2021.