Better Earth adds software provider to its portfolio

Better Earth, an Atlanta-based producer of compostable food service items and packaging, has acquired Wausau, Wisconsin-based Betterbin, a software as a service (SaaS) platform that optimizes recycling and composting education for consumers, retailers and businesses.

Better Earth says the acquisition bolsters its “mission to create a regenerative circular economy by providing seamless, tech-driven solutions that divert food packaging waste from landfills, improve compliance with solid waste regulations and meet local sustainability goals.”

According to Better Earth, Betterbin's platform provides real-time, hyperlocal insights into what waste infrastructure is available and what materials are accepted in local recycling and composting programs.

“Betterbin’s technology introduces much needed efficiency to the waste management process,” says Joseph Bild, CEO of Better Earth. “By giving purchasing managers the tools to select products that are compostable or recyclable based on local regulations, we are driving systemic change in sustainability practices across the food service industry. This acquisition aligns perfectly with Better Earth's mission to lead the way in social and environmental transparency.”

Better Earth says Betterbin can provide consumers with clear instructions on how to dispose of packaging correctly. This expertise will support Better Earth's mission to help restaurants and food service operators make informed packaging choices that comply with state and local regulations.

“Compliance is often a complicated yet critical component of companies’ sustainability efforts,” says Michelle Goetsch, CEO of Betterbin. “By integrating our technology into Better Earth’s suite of solutions, we’re providing restaurants and food service operators with the first comprehensive tool for proactive compliance around packaging waste management.

“This will not only improve their environmental impact but also ensure clearer insights and timely compliance with evolving local and state waste management standards and regulations.”

Better Earth points to the wider use of Betterbin’s platform as a means of preventing the purchase of noncompliant or nonrecyclable packaging, which it says will help businesses cut down on landfill waste, meet regulations and offer consumers more sustainable end-of-life solutions for their packaging.

The company says its acquisition of Betterbin enhances its ability to offer a full spectrum of sustainable packaging solutions while integrating "cutting-edge technology to optimize end-of-life recycling and composting practices.”

Better Earth says its product line includes a wide variety of (BPI)-certified commercially compostable plates, bowls, trays, take-home food containers, cutlery, cups and lids. Some of its products are made from agricultural byproducts and residues.