Human Composting for New York — Transforming the End-of-Life Experience
Cremation and conventional burial carry significant environmental costs, and neither lets your final act reflect your deepest values. Renewed Roots is building an alternative path. Natural organic reduction — also known as human composting or terramation — transforms human remains into nutrient-rich soil, returning you or your loved one to the natural cycle of life. We are working to bring this practice home to New York State.
Founded by Frederick Zindell — environmental advocate, death care champion, and New Yorker who didn't have human composting available when his mother passed away and is building Renewed Roots so others could choose differently.
How Natural Organic Reduction Works
Your loved one is received by the facility and wrapped in an organic shroud
Then they will be placed in a vessel surrounded by organic matter such as alfalfa, wood chips, and hay
After 8 to 12 weeks, your loved one is gently transformed into approximately one cubic yard of nutrient-rich soil.
Family and friends receive the soil to use for houseplants, gardens, planting a memorial tree, or donating to a conservation project — allowing your loved one to bring renewed life in death.