Delaware
Delaware House passes 'human composting' bill with broad support
A bill to allow composting of human bodies as an alternative to burial or cremation received overwhelming approval in the state House on Tuesday.
The measure passed the House on a 37-2 vote and now goes to the Senate. It authorizes a practice called “natural organic reduction,” often referred to as “human composting.”
Chief sponsor Rep. Sean Lynn, a Dover Democrat, called the practice a “gentle, respectful, environmentally friendly death care option.”
DELAWARE GOV. JOHN CARNEY DELAYS STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS OVER ILLNESS
“Natural organic reduction is a sophisticated process that applies cutting-edge technology and engineering to accelerate the natural process of turning a body into soil,” he said.
Testing in other states that allow the practice found the resulting soil to be “high quality and regenerative,” Lynn added.
Human composting is currently legal in Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, California, New York and Nevada, and legislation has been introduced in more than a dozen other states, according to Recompose, a Seattle-based company that offers the service and advocates for its expanded use.
Seen here is the inside of a human composting vessel and some materials used in the process at Earth Funeral, a human composting facility in Auburn, Washington, on Dec. 7, 2023. (Mat Hayward/Getty Images for Earth Funeral)
Lynn said the Delaware measures takes into account the precedent from other states, but it includes additional environmental and health safeguards. If the bill is enacted into law, specific regulations would be developed over the ensuing year, he said.
The organic reduction process involves putting a body into a large tank that also holds straw, wood chips or other natural materials for about 30 days. The human remains and organic materials would mix with warm air and be periodically turned until the body is reduced to a soil-like material that can then be given to the dead person’s family.
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Supporters of the bill have said human composting is a more environmentally friendly alternative to cremation that uses less energy and doesn’t involve the use of formaldehyde or the release of carbon dioxide and mercury into the atmosphere.
Under the bill, remains could not be accepted for composting if they contain radioactive implants, or if the person died as the result of a radiological incident. Also off-limits would be the remains of those suspected of having certain infections, such as the Ebola virus or diseases that can affect both animals and humans and lead to incurable neurodegenerative disorders, such as mad cow disease.
Lynn said he expects human composting will become more popular amid greater emphasis on environmental sustainability and land-use issues regarding cemetery space.
Delaware
Crash closes U.S. 42 in both directions in Delaware County
Delaware Ohio Housing Growth
A look at the rapid expansion of housing developments in Delaware, Ohio.
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Every few weeks Delaware city approves a new housing development. The city has more than 4,000 housing units in its development pipeline, contributing to the rapid growth in one of the fastest-growing counties in Ohio.
A crash shut down U.S. 42 in Delaware County in both directions June 2.
As of 7 a.m., U.S. 42 was closed from U.S. 23 to Jegs Place near the Delaware Municipal Airport.
It was not immediately clear whether anyone was injured in the crash or when the roadway would open.
This is a developing story and will be updated
Public Safety and Breaking News Reporter Bailey Gallion can be reached at bagallion@dispatch.com.
Delaware
Lavender & Lambs Festival Returns to Brittingham Farms June 27 – Milford LIVE! – Local Delaware News, Kent and Sussex Counties
The Delaware Lavender & Lambs Festival returns to Brittingham Farms on June 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring farm activities, local vendors and seasonal attractions set among blooming lavender fields. (Photo courtesy of Brittingham Farms.)
The Delaware Lavender & Lambs Festival will return to Brittingham Farms on Saturday, June 27, offering a full day of farm-based activities, local vendors, and seasonal attractions set among blooming lavender fields.
Now in its fourth year, the event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the farm, located at 22518 Phillips Hill Road in Millsboro.
Organizers say the festival highlights both the peak bloom of lavender and the farm’s heritage sheep, with activities designed to showcase agricultural traditions and local craftsmanship.
Attendees will be able to take part in u-pick lavender, wagon tours of the farm, colonial-style wool spinning demonstrations, and country line dancing. The event will also feature more than 50 vendors, including local artisans, boutiques, and specialty food producers.
Food and drink options are expected to include food trucks, lavender-themed treats, ice cream, and alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine.
Tickets are available for $12 in advance for attendees ages 10 and older, with day-of admission priced higher. Organizers note that a limited number of early ticket purchasers will receive a complimentary u-pick lavender bundle.
Additional information about tickets and event details is available through Brittingham Farms.
Sara Uzer is a journalist from Sussex County with more than 15 years of experience as a writer, editor, and community advocate. She started her career in Washington, DC and has lived in Sussex County for the past five years.
Delaware
Over 1,000 pets will be looking for homes at mega adoption event in Delaware
Looking for a new furry friend? Over 1,000 pets will be waiting to meet you at Brandywine Valley SPCA’s Mega Adoption Event in Delaware.
The event will take place Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Bob Carpenter Center at the University of Delaware in Newark.
Organizers said dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens from BVSPCA and participating partner organizations will be available throughout the event for $35 in adoption fees.
All pets available at the two-day event will be spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations.
The event is supported by Best Friends Animal Society, a national nonprofit organization whose goal is to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters and make the country no-kill. No-kill is defined by a 90% save rate for animals entering a shelter.
“Our Megas are such inspiring events, providing a lifeline to so many pets who have lost everything. Seeing these dogs and cats chosen by families eager to give them a new life full of love is what it’s all about,” BVSPCA CEO Adam Lamb said in a news release. “As the largest adoption event in the country, our goal with the size and format is to save even more lives by reaching folks who might not otherwise consider coming to a shelter to adopt.”
“We’re proud to support Brandywine Valley SPCA’s Mega Adoption Event and the incredible impact it has on pets and the community,” said Aurora Velazquez, East Regional Director, Best Friends Animal Society. “Events like this bring people together around the shared goal of helping more dogs and cats find loving homes.”
Organizers said a limited number of early-access fast passes will be available for purchase. If you are a fast pass holder, you will receive entry one hour before general admission on Saturday, June 20.
If you are considering adopting a new pet, please bring a leash and collar for dog adoptions, a carrier for cat adoptions, a valid ID, and the adoption fee.
This event will celebrate the BVSPCA’s 22nd Mega Adoption. Over the years, more than 22,000 pets have been adopted into loving homes.
More details and volunteer opportunities are available at megaadopt.com.
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