Rochester zero-waste, composting companies merge

A Rochester-based zero-waste solutions company has acquired a composting company it first partnered with in 2014. Financial details of the purchase were not disclosed.

Impact Earth Inc. will take over operations of Community Composting, a company it first partnered with at the Brighton Farmers Market. The two companies have since worked together to co-market services whenever possible and to build momentum for sustainability, officials noted. Combined, the two companies have diverted nearly 4 million pounds of organics from landfills.

“The acquisition of Community Composting grants Impact Earth the ability to reach more people to expand our greater collective impact as a community,” said Impact Earth Founder and CEO Robert Putney. “We are dedicated to ensuring individuals and businesses have the opportunity to learn and engage in diversion efforts and are thrilled for this opportunity to greater serve our community and our planet.”

Since 2014, Impact Earth has continued to expand its team and services. Beyond composting, the company offers environmental education, lifestyle products and packaging and consulting services. Lifestyle products are available online and at retail locations like Eastview Mall and at the Rochester Public Market.

Consulting services range from waste audits and policy and program development to feasibility studies and sustainability/climate action plans, with clients spanning multiple industries such as the municipalities, venues and businesses. In 2020, the company was awarded the 2020 Rochester Museum and Science Center’s STEM Catalyst Award in the Sustainability/Agriculture/Food Production category.

With offices on Brighton Henrietta Townline Road, Impact Earth plans to continue to expand in 2021 and is focused on growth and expanding services, officials said. The pandemic has had a detrimental effect on many small businesses nationwide and has required the team at Impact Earth to pivot as a company to react to current community needs. Impact Earth saw an opportunity in the acquisition of Community Composting, officials said.

Community Composting’s curbside composting service is available on a weekly or biweekly basis, with an annual subscription available. Customers may elect to use the market composting service available at local farmers markets or co-ops including Rochester Public Market on Saturdays, Lori’s Natural Foods Center, Abundance Food Co-Op, and #Hydro Inc. Businesses can sign up for commercial pick up service. Current commercial customers include municipalities, restaurants, bakeries, school districts, commercial properties/offices and multi-family residential buildings.

Impact Earth will continue monthly drives to support various organizations and causes across Rochester, officials said.

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