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How can I ensure that most of my body is used after my death?

Our readers have some detailed answers for this one, digging into how our remains can be turned into compost

7 May 2025

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Last Word is New Scientist’s long-running series in which readers give scientific answers to each other’s questions, ranging from the minutiae of everyday life to absurd astronomical hypotheticals. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com

How can I ensure that most of my body is used after my death and what is left over can be turned into something like compost?

Stephen Johnson
Eugene, Oregon, US

There are many ways in which your body can be useful after your death. First, there is organ donation, and there is a continuous need for human…

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