What is terramation

Terramation—also known as natural organic reduction—is a gentle, nature-guided process in which the human body is allowed to return to the earth through decomposition, just as it has throughout history.

Once your loved one passes and comes into our care, they are placed in a secure vessel filled with natural materials such as:

  • wood chips

  • straw

  • alfalfa

  • wildflowers

These materials surround the body and create a warm, aerated environment where beneficial microbes begin their natural work.

There are no chemicals, no embalming, and no flames.
Just nature, time, and gentle renewal.

Over the next several weeks, naturally-occurring microbial activity helps break the body down into compost—much like the forest floor transforms fallen leaves into life-giving nourishment.

During this time, the vessel is monitored for moisture and oxygen. The process is respectful, quiet, and fully enclosed.

At the end of this cycle, the body has transformed into nutrient-rich, life-giving compost.

Nothing harmful remains. Only clean, fertile compost—an elemental return to the natural world.

Once terramation is complete, the compost is prepared for your family. This final compost is clean, safe, and full of nutrients.

Families often choose to use this compost to:

  • nourish flower beds

  • enrich home gardens

  • plant memorial trees

  • restore family land

  • contribute to forest or land restoration projects

All are extraordinary ways for one life to nurture many others.

Whatever you choose, this natural compost becomes a symbol of renewal, connection, and the enduring beauty of your loved one’s story.

Why terramation

Terramation offers families a gentle, meaningful way to care for a loved one at the end of life—one that reflects values of stewardship, simplicity, and renewal.

Many families today are thoughtfully considering what feels most consistent with their beliefs, their care for the Earth, and their desire for a peaceful return to nature. For some, that means looking beyond familiar choices and embracing an option that mirrors the natural processes already present in the world around us.

Terramation allows the body to return naturally to the earth through a carefully managed, dignified process that transforms remains into clean, life-giving compost. This compost can be used to nourish gardens, restore forests, or support conservation efforts, creating opportunities for remembrance, ritual, and ongoing connection.

Terramation does not replace burial or cremation—it simply expands the range of choices available to families, funeral directors, and faith communities who believe that honoring a life can also honor the earth.

Who we are

We are deeply-rooted Tennesseans shaped by service, community, and a deep respect for the natural world. Our experience spans the funeral industry, nonprofit leadership, and small-business entrepreneurship, and our work has always been guided by faith, compassion, and a desire to care for both people and creation.

As environmentally mindful business owners, we believe innovation can honor life while supporting the health of the land we all share. Our approach is grounded in collaboration, respect for tradition, and a commitment to expanding meaningful choices for families at the end of life.

The phrase “dust to dust” appears across many faith traditions—including Jewish, Christian, and Islamic teachings—expressing the timeless truth that life returns to the earth from which it came. Dust to Dust, LLC was founded in that spirit: to offer families a gentle, dignified option that reflects enduring values and contributes to a healthier, more resilient Tennessee for generations to come.