Natural organic reduction
Returns your loved one as soil, not ash.
Natural organic reduction
Natural organic reduction transforms the body into soil. A vessel layered with organic materials creates conditions for microbes to break down the body naturally.
Produces under 20kg of CO2 compared to 500kg for traditional burial.
Yields nutrient-rich earth that can support new life.
Completely eliminates toxic embalming fluids and preservatives.
soil is returned
Why choose natural organic reduction?
Natural organic reduction offers a return to simplicity and sustainability with its minimal footprint to turn bodies into nutrient-rich soil.
- Ultra-low emissions
- Minimal energy use
- Chemical-free
Our promise to you
Carbon-neutral cremation
While traditional cremation is already more environmentally friendly than burial, carbon-neutral options go further by using carbon offsets to balance out the emissions from the cremation process.
It’s a way to honor your environmental values and honor the planet.
Everything handled
We coordinate respectful transportation in California.
Cremains are returned in a beautiful urn to family.
Death certificates, permits and filing handled for you.
Interactive, digital tribute; share stories and photos.
We offset cremation’s impact through climate action.
We provide resources to help you navigate after-loss.
Cremation types
Compare cremation options
Flame Cremation
Uses heat and flame to reduce the body to ash.
- No toxic chemicals
- No burial plot needed
- Fewer resources than burial
Aquamation
Uses water and alkali to reduce the body to ash.
- 90% less energy than flame
- Zero emissions
- No toxic byproducts
Natural Organic Reduction
Uses natural microbes to reduce the body to soil.
- Creates nutrient-rich soil
- Minimal energy use
- Ultra-low emissions
We're here whenever you're ready
A Guide is always available to answer questions, offer support, or simply listen.
Talk to a Guide, 24/7
When you’re ready, we’re here.
Explore at your own pace
See the two ways families honor a life.
Questions?
We're here to help.
What is natural organic reduction?
Natural organic reduction is the most environmentally friendly cremation option—a gentle, natural process that transforms the body into nutrient-rich soil, rather than ash. It allows your loved one to give back to the earth in the most direct way possible. Like all cremation options at Better Place, it is always carbon-neutral.
Is natural organic reduction the same as human composting?
Yes. Natural organic reduction and human composting refer to the same process—natural organic reduction is simply the term most families find more fitting for the care and intention behind it.
How does natural organic reduction work?
Natural organic reduction gently accelerates the body’s natural decomposition process using organic materials like wood chips and wildflowers. Over 30–60 days, the body is transformed into nutrient-rich soil.
How long does natural organic reduction take?
The natural organic reduction process takes 30–60 days. Families can expect to receive their loved one’s soil within 2–3 months.
What is returned to the family after natural organic reduction?
Nutrient-rich soil is returned, ready to be kept, or spread at a living memorial until spread—either in a shared Spreading Grove or at a private Memorial Tree in a protected Memorial Forest.
Is natural organic reduction legal in California?
Natural organic reduction is set to become legal in California in January 2027. Better Place will offer natural organic reduction in California as soon as it is available. Talk to a Guide to learn more.
Why do families choose natural organic reduction?
Many families choose natural organic reduction because it feels like the most natural return—a way for their loved one to continue nurturing the earth rather than leaving it. For those who care deeply about the environment, it offers the smallest possible footprint and something beautiful to leave behind: living soil that can nurture the forest.
Is natural organic reduction more eco-friendly than cremation?
Yes—natural organic reduction is the most environmentally friendly of all three cremation options. It produces fewer emissions than both flame cremation and aquamation, requires no energy-intensive heat or water processes, and returns the body to the earth in its most natural form. Every option at Better Place is carbon-neutral, but natural organic reduction goes the furthest in reducing impact from the start.
How much does natural organic reduction cost?
Natural organic reduction is more expensive than flame cremation, reflecting the nature of the process. View pricing details
Can you have a memorial service with natural organic reduction?
Yes—and with Better Place, a memorial can be something truly meaningful. When you choose a living memorial, ashes can be returned to nature in a protected Memorial Forest, either at a private Memorial Tree or in a shared Spreading Grove. You also have the option to hold a Natural Memorial Ceremony, where family and friends can gather, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived.
Talk to a Guide to inquire about arranging other services like a funeral, viewing or visitation.
