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Compost Manufacturer of the Year among winners named at COMPOST2025

The recipients were honoured for their commitment to sustainability and advancements in composting

A person holding a pile of dirt next to composting material
The US Composting Council celebrated outstanding achievements in the composting industry during its annual awards ceremony at COMPOST2025. AdobeStock

The US Composting Council (USCC) celebrated outstanding achievements in the composting industry during its annual awards ceremony at COMPOST2025. Recognizing leaders, innovators, and dedicated contributors to the advancement of composting, this event highlighted the industry's ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Awardees are nominated by peers and honoured each year at the US Composting Council's annual conference and tradeshow. 

The recipients and the awards presented during the ceremony:

Compost Manufacturer of the Year for large scale-facilities managing over 10,000 tons of material annually 

Florida Crystals, located in West Palm Beach, FL, received this award to recognize their innovative composting operations converting agricultural residues into high-quality compost, demonstrating how industrial-scale composting can advance environmental sustainability. 

The Compost Manufacturer of the Year - Small Scale 

The Foodbank of Dayton, Ohio, was recognized for its community composting facility that diverts food waste from local businesses and provides compost for community gardens. The facility's model highlights the powerful intersection of food security and sustainability.

The Organics Diversion Program of the Year Award 

The Town of Cary, NC, received this award for its Dropoff Program, which has composted 159 tons of material since it began in 2022. This program's ability to engage residents and divert significant amounts of organic waste underscores its success.

The Hi Kellogg Award for Outstanding Service to the Industry 

Neil Edgar was awarded this honour for consulting on dozens of projects along with his leadership and advocacy for adopting composting practices. Some of his areas of specialization include green and food materials recovery, technical and financial feasibility, and collection options. 

The Board of Directors Service Award  

Gary Gittere of McGill Compost Systems was honoured with the award for his 14 years of service on the USCC Board of Directors. During his tenure, Gary led sales and marketing efforts, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to promoting composting nationwide. 

The Board of Directors Service Award 

Jeff Ziegenbein, senior manager of organics for Waste Management, received the award in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the USCC Board of Directors, testifying at the U.S. Capitol advocating for the compost industry, and participating in several committees and foundations.

The Volunteer of the Year 

Dave Gavlick of St. Louis Composting was celebrated for his tireless dedication to making the annual Equipment Demonstration Day (Demo Day) a success. His efforts have significantly enhanced the visibility and impact of this key event.

The Top Learner Award 

The award was given to Liv Johansson who completed 21 hours of coursework in CompostU on topics from using DNA sequencing to improve compost products, and compost feedstock in the circular economy to sustainable landscaping research. 

USCC Young Professional of the Year 

Lauren Click received this award for her efforts in composting accessibility, securing over $200,000 in funding, and partnering with over 110 schools nationwide. Lauren's accolades include Non-Profit of the Year (Circular Arizona) and the Mercedes-Benz beVisioneers Fellowship. 

The State Chapter Rookie of the Year Award

The Arizona Composting Council (AZCC) received this recognition for stellar efforts as a newly formed chapter within the past five years. The Arizona chapter's innovative approaches and commitment to growth earned them this notable distinction.

The State Chapter of Excellence Award 

The Minnesota Composting Council (MNCC) was presented with the award for demonstrating outstanding achievements in composting advocacy and operations. MNCC secured a $935,000 USEPA grant in 2024 to create an organics recycling toolkit aimed at boosting participation and reducing contamination in residential organics recycling programs. 

The H. Clark Gregory Award 

Nathan Rutz received this award for his dedication to grassroots composting initiatives. Nathan has been a key member of the Ohio Organics Council (OHCC), is part of an employee-owned company in Ohio, and loves to educate people on the power of soil.

Company info

PO Box 19246
Raleigh, NC
US, 27619

Website:
compostingcouncil.org

Phone number:
301-897-2715

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