TerraCon 2026: The 3rd Annual Terramation (Body Composting) Conference

Join us for TerraCon 2026: The 3rd Annual Terramation Conference

TerraCon 2026 brings together leaders, innovators, families, and advocates to explore the transformative future of terramation—also known as body composting. Over two days in Tacoma, Washington, attendees will engage with groundbreaking science, hear directly from pioneering operators and funeral professionals, and join candid conversations on culture, legislation, technology, and family experience.

From heartfelt family stories to in-depth panels on process, partnerships, and policy, TerraCon offers a rare opportunity to connect, learn, and envision what’s next. This year’s conference will challenge assumptions, celebrate progress, and chart the path toward a more sustainable and meaningful future in deathcare.

Why Attend TerraCon 2026

A Transformative Event for Industry Professionals

TerraCon is more than just a conference, it’s a comprehensive journey into the transformative world of terramation. Designed for forward-thinking professionals across the deathcare space, TerraCon offers hands-on learning, powerful storytelling, and meaningful community connection. Here’s what makes it essential for anyone shaping the future of sustainable aftercare.

TerraCon Website

Attendance Options

In-Person AttendanceJoin us in Tacoma, Washington, for the full TerraCon experience. In-person attendees will have access to all keynote sessions, panels, and networking opportunities, including the evening reception. It’s the best way to connect directly with leaders, innovators, families, and peers shaping the future of terramation.

Virtual AttendanceFor those unable to travel, TerraCon 2026 will also be fully accessible online. Virtual attendees will receive live-stream access to all sessions and panels, with interactive chat and Q&A opportunities. Recordings will be available after the event for continued learning at your own pace.

Registration

The most convenient way to register and pay is through the Eventbrite app. It’s an easy way to keep your tickets organized, review your schedule, and see the daily lineup. You can also purchase tickets on the website, and they’ll be sent directly to your email.

Travel and Parking Details

Conference Parking Information - Tacoma Convention Center Parking Information and near to venue parking alternatives as well as metered street parking surounding the venue.

Regional Mass Transit - Access the Tacoma Convention Center station via T Line Light Rail, Sounder Rail Way, Seattle Light Rail. Plan your transportion needs via Sound Transit Site - Trip Planner.

Hotel Room Block - If you would like to book a discounted room within the TerraCon room block follow this Booking Link to reserve at the Hotel Murano. If you would like to stay a day before or after the main booking room block, reach out to Gabriel Hess, Sales coordinator at +1-253-591-4123 to see if Hotel Murano can offer additional nights at the group rate.

Event Check In- Please download the Eventbrite App via your app store. This is a much smoother way to check in and follow the TerraCon26 schedule.

Speakers and Panel Overview

Day 1

Opening TerraCon 2026 – Luke Hamilton An inspiring opening that grounds us in soil, ecology, and belonging—reminding us that terramation begins with reverence for the earth.

Scientific Insights from Meine Erde – Marcus Schwarz Fresh data and lessons from Germany’s leading terramation facility—what’s working, what needs study, and what’s next on the scientific frontier.

Operators Panel – Process Facility operators share the realities of running vessels, managing processes, and meeting family needs behind the scenes of NOR.

Equipment Panel Innovators in vessel design and system development explore technology, regulation, and the next wave of terramation engineering.

Partnership Panel Funeral home partners discuss why they chose terramation, how they integrated it, and what partnerships mean for growth.

CEO Panel – Go Big or Go Home: Expansion Industry CEOs reveal strategies for scaling NOR facilities and building infrastructure in newly legalized states.

Legislation Update A candid briefing on where NOR laws stand, what’s working, and what to expect over the next 12 months.

TerraCon Reception An evening social at Hotel Murano Lobby—connect, reflect, and celebrate with peers.

Day 2

Family Panel Families share powerful, first-hand stories of terramation and the impact it had on their grieving and healing.

What Comes Next? (Panel To Be Confirmed) A forward-looking discussion on the future of terramation—details to be revealed.

Documentary Panel Filmmakers bring us behind the lens of capturing terramation, sharing unseen footage, challenges, and why storytelling matters.

Multicultural Deathcare – Joél Simone Maldonado Insights on delivering equitable, inclusive services across cultures and traditions in terramation and beyond.

Doula Panel Death Doulas share how they guide families through end-of-life, bridging emotional support with alternative deathcare practices.

Funeral Director Panel – Hot Ones Edition A fiery conversation (literally) as funeral directors tackle tough industry questions while eating blazing hot wings.

Final Words for TerraCon – Kris Hughes A reflective close, weaving myth and meaning into a final message to carry beyond TerraCon.