What is human composting? - Ask Us Anything by Popular Sc...

What this episode covers

A growing number of Americans are choosing to return to earth after death—literally. Green burials, and specifically human composting, is an environmentally conscious, life-sustaining option that’s now legal in 14 states. But how does a human composting vessel work? And what exactly happens to Grandpa’s hip replacement once he’s been “recycled?” PopSci Editor ⁠⁠Sarah Durn⁠⁠ and Editor-in-Chief ⁠⁠Annie Colbert⁠⁠ dig deep to explain it all. Read the full story that inspired this episode: https://www.popsci.com/science/how-human-composting-works/ If you have a question for a future episode, go to ⁠https://popsci.com/ask⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Ask Us Anything by Popular Science?

This episode is 15 minutes long.

When was this Ask Us Anything by Popular Science episode published?

This episode was published on November 12, 2025.

What is this episode about?

A growing number of Americans are choosing to return to earth after death—literally. Green burials, and specifically human composting, is an environmentally conscious, life-sustaining option that’s now legal in 14 states. But how does a human...

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