Rhode Island House Advances Human Composting Bill
In a significant move towards modernizing funeral practices, the Rhode Island House of Representatives is poised to pass a bill allowing human composting as a legal option for body disposition. Although Representative Greg Corvese expressed hesitation about the term, assuring his constituents, “I do not intend to compost grandma,” proponents argue that the bill will offer valuable alternatives to traditional burial and cremation methods.
Spearheaded by Representative Michelle E. McGaw, the legislation aims to make human composting accessible, alongside existing methods. McGaw emphasized that this “enabling legislation” would not compel anyone to choose this option, enabling funeral homes interested in this environmentally friendly alternative to offer it to clients.
Human composting, which has gained traction in 13 states, including New York and Vermont, focuses on reducing environmental impact. McGaw explained that conventional burial and cremation have significant ecological footprints, with cremation releasing an average of 534 pounds of carbon into the atmosphere. In contrast, human composting involves placing a body in a vessel with organic materials in a controlled environment, facilitating decomposition over four to seven weeks, resulting in nutrient-rich soil.
The bill has also been expanded to include alkaline hydrolysis, or water cremation, a method legal in 28 states. This process utilizes water and alkaline substances to reduce the body to a sterile liquid, with resulting bone fragments ground into a fine ash.
As the legislation progresses to the Senate, new leaders will review the bills that reflect a growing public interest in innovative burial practices. McGaw expressed optimism, stating, “As people get more education about what the bill actually does, they are becoming more comfortable with it.”
Should the bill pass, it will take effect on January 30, 2027, without affecting existing funeral options.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
