At its core, Terramation uses the same natural decomposition principles found in composting, but in a carefully controlled, dignified, and monitored environment. While the term “composting” might feel unusual when applied to human remains, the science behind it is something many of us understand. Composting breaks down organic material into nutrient-rich matter that nourishes the earth, and since our bodies are made of organic material, the same principles apply.

The key difference lies in how we manage the process. In aerobic composting, oxygen is consistently supplied to help break down organic matter quickly and without unpleasant smells. However, without enough airflow, the process can become anaerobic, leading to slower decomposition and the release of foul odours - this is known as rotting. Unfortunately, conventional burials in coffins rely on anaerobic decomposition or rotting, which leads to the body slowly breaking down over time, often under conditions that create unpleasant smells. 

Conventional burial often involves non-biodegradable materials like metal caskets, concrete vaults, synthetic coffin linings, and embalming chemicals that can leach toxins into the soil, potentially contaminating groundwater and posing health risks. Additionally, anaerobic decomposition in coffins releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change while taking up significant land space that could otherwise support green spaces for community use or natural landscapes like forests or bushland.

At Evergrove, our vessels are carefully aerated, ensuring that oxygen levels, moisture, and temperature are monitored and balanced throughout the process. This allows for optimal, efficient aerobic decomposition. It’s one of the many ways we ensure that Terramation is both respectful and environmentally friendly.

How It Works: The Role of the Microbiome

The body’s natural microbiome - microorganisms that live within us - plays a vital role in the terramation process. Once the body is placed in the vessel, the microbiome works with the added organic materials like wood chips and straw to accelerate decomposition. Along with controlled levels of oxygen, moisture, and warmth, these microorganisms create the perfect conditions for the natural transformation to occur.

The electronically monitored vessel ensures that conditions such as temperature, humidity, and airflow remain optimal throughout the 60-90 day process. This balance allows the body’s natural systems to work in harmony with nature, transforming into life-giving earth, ensuring the highest environmental benefit.

The Result: Life Giving Earth

Once the transformation is complete, what remains is life-giving earth. Similar to cremated ashes, there are no traces of the body or identifiable human DNA. Importantly, the terramation process eradicates harmful pathogens and parasites, making the resulting earth completely safe. In fact, it’s likely even safer than the soil found in your garden or local park, as it has undergone a rigorous and controlled process, leaving no unknowns.

What sets terramation apart is not just the thoughtful and sustainable approach to decomposition, but the endless possibilities it offers for what comes next. Unlike burial, which involves a body, or cremated ashes, which have a high pH level that can harm plant life, the earth created through Terramation can be used freely to plant trees, grow gardens, or even contribute to environmental restoration projects. This allows families to honour their loved ones by nurturing new life - whether by planting a tree or garden in a meaningful place, or by donating the earth to conservation projects that benefit future generations.

You can compare terramation with existing options here