Elevate Packaging, Inc.

ELEVATE PACKAGING is a Leader in Circular Compostable Packaging systems, enabling companies of every size seeking Zero-Waste, plastic-free solutions to meet their sustainability goals and reduce their carbon footprint.

We make sustainability easy and simple.

Visit ElevatePackaging.com to find the widest range of compostable products (bags, pouches, labels, shipping supplies, food service supplies) shipped within 24 hours, with No Minimums!
Get fully custom and full color printed compostable solutions with speedy expert service.

Elevate enables your sustainability success with a frictionless on-ramp to sustainability leadership.
For 25 years, we're the #1 trusted expert and leading source for circular compostable packaging solutions for natural, organic, and sustainable brands.

President and Founder

US Composting Council

Collaborating with stakeholders to accelerate composting infrastructure.  Believing that compost manufacturing and compost utilization are central to creating healthy soils, clean air and water, a stable climate, and a sustainable society.

Founding Member, Corporate Compost Leadership Council 

UL Solutions

SaaS sustainability data management solutions for global businesses. Architected efficient and effective process workflows to manage and analyze sustainable business operations in centralized cloud database. UL purchased CR360 in 2016.

Senior Business Development Manager

Artelys

Fully responsible for all business functions, business development and strategy.  Developed growth within domestic and international markets and built new markets for KNITRO software, a world-class non-linear mathematical optimization algorithm for advanced optimization software programs. Ziena was purchased by Artelys.

Director

University of Illinois Chicago

Lectured on International Strategic Planning.  This program was focused toward professional in global organizations and was a joint collaboration with Bradley University.

Adjunct Instructor

Precision Software

Led teams at mid-sized client sites to customize, integrate and implement Global Trade Management Software within Client's ERP supply chain and logistics system.  Improved existing international supply chain processes to create seamless and efficient exports and imports for our global business clients.

Senior Project Manager

Loyola University Chicago

Lecturer on JAVA Programming to undergraduate students.

W.W. Grainger, Inc.

► International strategic planning (China and Latin American markets)
► Corporate strategy development with key executives of the company's business units
► Competitive research and analysis for C-level decision making
► Developed innovative technologies applications using emerging technologies  (mobile e-commerce network design, RFID, network architecture, genetic algorithms, neural networks).
► Managed concurrent projects and initiatives
► Business process design, documentation, and implementation
► Technology Innovation and Conceptual Modeling

Strategy and Business Development Manager

► Managed an application development team to support company's systems for this $50M business
► Re-organized technology group and a $1M+ technology budget to strategically retool business for next generation technology capabilities.
► Led team to design, implement and train IT department on ISO9000 quality processes to improve efficiencies.

Technology Manager, PCA

Northern Trust Bank

► Software Applications Programmer using COBOL, PL/1, JCL, IMS, VSAM, FOCUS Relational Database for CRM application.

Programmer

🌎 On a Mission to Eliminate 1 BILLION Pounds of Plastic Annually! 👉 Let’s connect today!

I'm dedicated to eliminating BILLIONS of pounds of plastic by making circular compostable packaging a reality for every brand.  We've made circular compostable packaging solutions easily accessible, and help brands get them effectively composted, powering sustainability impact to drive brand value and financial success.

With 25 years at the helm of Elevate Packaging, I have pioneered and led the charge in providing world leading, reliable, high-quality compostable packaging solutions for the leading sustainable brands.

Our mission is to make it easy for your business to seamlessly move beyond traditional plastics to circular compostable packaging, making sustainability an easy choice and a big win for your business.

Leveraging my deep expertise in strategy, technology, and business innovation, I've identified and developed market leading solutions to reduce packaging waste, introducing industry-first compostable products and enabling circular packaging systems.

As a speaker, investor, and a key contributor to sustainability councils, I strive to lead by example in both my professional and personal life and promoting a healthier planet for future generations.

Let's make a difference together!

Innovation doesn’t wait... and neither do we.

I had the pleasure of joining an incredible panel at the Specialty Papers Conference with Scott McNutt (Nextep), Breanna Van Nuland (Amcor), and Kendra Fein (Hoffmaster) to discuss the role of converters and specialty paper. 

I shared how our light asset, vertically integrated model at Elevate Packaging uniquely ties the entire supply chain together.  Our unique and differentiated approach enables us to rapidly deliver the latest compostable packaging innovations from world-class R&D paper and pulp leaders directly into the hands of our deeply committed and passionate sustainable brand owners, large or small.

For 25 years, our formula has been simple: provide reliable, high-quality, turnkey circular compostable solutions tailored for leading sustainable businesses of any size.

This panel was a fantastic opportunity to share how vertical integration and deep sustainability leadership and expertise at Elevate Packaging truly differentiate us in bringing innovative and circular solutions to market.

Excited about the connections made and the path forward to accelerate sustainable packaging adoption.

Thanks to Carmen Berry M.S. for sharing this photo.

#Sustainability #Innovation #Packaging #CompostableSolutions #SpecialtyConverterConference

Rich Cohen

conference speaker. Specialty papers 2025 Chicago. Richard Cohen. elevate packaging. Compostable circular packaging

Just wrapped up an insightful panel discussion at SupplySide focused on one of the most urgent challenges of our time: #microplastics.

We explored the latest science, current solutions in the market, and most importantly, how brands can stay ahead of the curve by transitioning to safer, #plasticfree and #compostable alternatives.

It’s encouraging to see growing awareness and collaboration across industries, from ingredients to #supplements to #copackers to #packaging, as we work toward a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.

A big thank-you to Sandy Almendarez, my fellow panelists, Asa Bielenberg and Susan Börjesson Newman who’s helping move this conversation forward.

Sustainability is a journey.

Together, we can eliminate plastic waste and protect both people and planet. 🌍

#Microplastics #CompostablePackaging #CircularEconomy #Sustainability #BetterForThePlanet

supplyside microplastics compostable packaging

🌟 Packaging is more than just protection... it’s a reflection of your values.

This amazing couple is a true inspiration!  They are running a #sustainable #smallbusiness.   See how they make the planet better and happier. 😊 

Eco-conscious customers care deeply about their values:
Clean Ingredients and Clean Packaging matter! 🌎 

This local #Colorado specialty bakery poulette BAKESHOP has “Michelin‑star‑style” pastry credentials from couple and owner/Chefs Alen Ramos and Carolyn Nugent.
They have chosen going all‑in on sustainability. 👍 

They’ve committed to sourcing not just exceptional ingredients but also packaging that speaks to the planet. 💚 Including use of high-quality organic ingredients from King Arthur Baking Company as well as sustainable compostable packaging. 🌿 

Let's support the bakery industry to move beyond wasteful plastic packaging to truly reduce waste.

At Elevate Packaging, we help bakeries replace single‑use plastics with compostable pouches, plant-based cellophane #quickservice bags, label stickers, food service gloves, and shipping supplies - 100% compostable and fully customizable.

Here’s how Elevate Packaging supports bakeries:
- Food-safe compostable packaging that preserves freshness
- Custom‑branded compostable labels
- Plastic‑free compostable shipping supplies for e‑commerce
- Free 'take-back program' to ensure all compostable packaging gets composted

Bakeries with compostable packaging aren’t just offering great taste, they’re telling a story of responsibility, transparency, and innovation.

If your business is ready to move from good to great, inside and out, Elevate Packaging is ready to help. 😊 

Elevate supports the baking industry and it's communities including The Bread Bakers Guild of America Artisan Grain Collaborative Green Restaurant Association The Sustainable Restaurant Association IDDBA American Bakers Association Retail Bakers of America
 #SpecialtyFood #PlasticFreePackaging #CompostablePouches #CleanLabel #SustainableBranding #sustianablebakery #sustainableingredients

Poulette Bakeshop Sustainable Eco-friendly natural Elevate Packaging Michelin-rated bakery

This describes our Team at Elevate Packaging! 🙌🏽

If this describes you, and especially adding 'Takes Initiative to Get It Done', we're hiring!💪🏽

Seeking Chicago-based leaders and contractors in: 
Technology
Supply chain 
Warehouse 
Customer Service 
Marketing 
Sales 
Office Administration 
Accounting and FP&A

Send a DM now, and let's connect

Entrepreneur, speaker, author. Ex-CEO, McKinsey, Harvard Law, elected official. Volunteer firefighter. ✅Follow for daily tips to thrive at work AND in life.

13 powerful traits of high performers -

And how anyone can build them:

1. Keep Promises
↳Follow through even when no one's watching
↳Do this: Pick one small task today and finish it before starting anything else

2. Communicate Early
↳Surface info before it turns into an issue
↳Do this: Send one proactive update: "Here's what's done and what's next"

3. Elevate Others
↳Make people around you sharper
↳Do this: Give one teammate public credit today, even for something small

4. Avoid Drama
↳Move conversations toward solutions, not stories
↳Do this: When tension rises, ask "What's our next move?"

5. Measure Outcomes
↳Define success before you start
↳Do this: Before any task, write: "This is successful when..."

6. Stay Curious
↳Ask questions before drawing conclusions
↳Do this: In your next challenge, start with "What's true here?"

7. Own Mistakes
↳Take responsibility and fix fast
↳Do this: When something slips, say "Here's what happened, here's my fix"

8. Build Habits
↳Rely on systems, not spurts of motivation
↳Do this: Choose one process to repeat daily for 21 days

9. Manage Energy
↳Treat rest as part of performance
↳Do this: Schedule one no-screen recharge block before 3 p.m.

10. Stay Composed
↳Control emotions instead of reacting to them
↳Do this: When stress spikes, count to 5 before you reply

11. Prepare Ahead
↳Walk into every room ready
↳Do this: Before each meeting, write 3 bullets: goal, risk, decision

12. Seek Feedback
↳Treat feedback like a shortcut, not a threat
↳Do this: Ask one person, "What's one thing I could do 10% better?"

13. Think Long-Term
↳Focus on inputs today that pay off next year
↳Do this: Write one 12-month goal and one daily action to support it


High performance isn't luck,
And it isn't complicated.

It's built choice by choice,
In the small moments no one else sees.

The work that looks invisible now is what makes you undeniable later.

Which of these do you think is most impactful?

---

♻️ Share this to help others.

And follow me George Stern for more high-performance tips.

High performers. 13 key traits - and how anyone can build them. George Stern

I’m really looking forward to speaking at SupplySide on Wednesday about #microplastics, an important issue that’s close to my heart. 

👉🏽 See details below.

In my practical and pragmatic style, I’ll be sharing currently available compostable packaging solutions that any sustainable brand can use to reduce microplastics.

If you’re attending SupplySide, please stop by.

I’d love to connect and discuss solutions with leaders who care about making packaging better for all of us.

#supplements #sustainablepackaging

Content VP responsible for development and implementation of strategic content planning in the B2B health & nutrition market

Who's getting PUMPED for SupplySide Global 2025?!?! *cue air horns*

I'm thrilled to moderate some incredible sessions next week that tackle the biggest challenges and opportunities facing our industry. Here's where you'll find me (in addition to the Bark Park of course!):

🗳️ Tuesday, Oct 28 | 12:30-2:30 PM
"Trump, tariffs and turmoil: Navigating the regulatory reset" 📍 Islander Ballroom H, Lower Level Join Katie Bond (Keller and Heckman LLP), Graham Rigby (American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), Steven Shapiro (Rivkin Radler LLP), Loren Israelsen (United Natural Products Alliance), and Duffy MacKay (CHPA) as we unpack the complex regulatory landscape

📢 Wednesday, Oct 29 | 10:30-11:00 AM
"The download: Welcome to SupplySide Global 2025" 📍 Innovation Stage, Booth #5014 Kicking off the show with Informa colleagues Laura F. and Jon Benninger!
🔥 Wednesday, Oct 29 | 11:15 AM-12:00 PM

"Unfiltered: Politics, policy and profit" 📍 Innovation Stage, Booth #5014 Raw conversations with Blake Ebersole (NaturPro Scientific LLC), Elan Sudberg (Alkemist Labs), Loren Israelsen (UNPA), Jeffrey Barke; MD (Personal Concierge Physicians), and Lynn Dornblaser (Mintel) about the future of supplements, foods & beverages

🔬 Wednesday, Oct 29 | 3:30-4:00 PM
"Microplastics under the microscope" 📍 Supplement Solutions Stage, Booth #957 Science, sourcing and solutions with Asa Bielenberg (FoodOps LLC), Rich Cohen (Elevate Packaging), and Susan Börjesson Newman (Integrated Lipid Biofuels LLC shaping our industry's future

⚖️ Thursday, Oct 30 | 12:00-12:30 PM
"Too supplement to be pharma, too pharma to be food" 📍 Innovation Stage, Booth #5014 Navigating the regulatory gray areas with Kevin Bell (Arnall Golden Gregory LLP), Megan Olsen (Council for Responsible Nutrition), and Jennifer Cooper (LPS Healh Science)

😂 Thursday, Oct 30 | 4:00-4:30 PM
"Probiotic comedy show: Laughter is the best supplement" 📍 Innovation Stage, Booth #5014 Because sometimes we need to laugh at the chaos! With Ivan Wasserman, Stanley T. Probiotic (Amin Wasserman Gurnani) and Michael Bush (GrowthWays Partners, LLC). 

Can't wait to see you there for these critical and fun conversations. Which session are you most excited about?

This is a #funny image! 🤣 

But seriously, current #EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) frameworks are at risk of backfiring.
Many policies are being written through a recycling-centric lens, unintentionally penalizing compostable packaging, the very solutions designed to eliminate plastic and #microplastics at the source.

By failing to differentiate between circular compostable systems and conventional recycling, EPR regulations are slowing innovation and retarding the adoption of the next generation of truly sustainable materials.
This will soon prove shortsighted.
It's quite likely EPR as we know it today will be short-lived in its current form due these gross shortcomings.

Growing scientific evidence shows that microplastics are hazardous to human health, not just the planet.  As this becomes undeniable in just the next few years, the demand for compostable, plastic-free solutions will surge.

At Elevate Packaging, we’ve created an EPR-compliant pathway for compostable packaging, enabling producers and brands to even stay compliant today while preparing for a future that prioritizes human and planetary health.

If EPR is to succeed in its intended mission, it must evolve to include compostables as a recognized recovery pathway, rather than forcing all packaging into a recycling model.

The future of packaging isn’t recyclable plastic.
The future remains compostable, regenerative materials that safely return to the soil and restore balance to our ecosystems. 🌎

Business Development | Circularity Solutions | Sustainability Intrapreneur

While I try to be positive over the wave of EPR laws I keep seeing too many unintended consequences and a lack of focus on areas of impact.

First lets just say as I have elsewhere that the grocery store aisles should all look like the beverage aisle if we want  to promote recycling - standard materials and limiting colors to easily removable labels would make recycling more retail packaging easier. That is all great and EPR will nudge us in this direction - but that isn't what we need most today.

Plastic recycling is not feedstock limited it is demand limited. Making more formats easier to recycle is all well and good but those nice packages will still end up in landfill until there is a demand driver from brands to use it at a price point that makes economic sense for conversion. That is a bigger topic for another day.

The unintended consequences though are also disappointing. Recycling is a great end of life option for many products if not most products. Applying one size fits all fees though will drive counterproductive decisions to try and make products 'recyclable' in cases where a non-recyclable option may be better. We are pigeonholing all packaging into PET or HDPE (and a lesser degree PP) while demonizing flexible packaging and biodegradable solutions. Some products have a use case or food content that will always make them very unlikely to be recycled (looking at you coffee pods!). As long as the easier path to lower fees is to just stick everything in HDPE the market for any new or innovative material is dead.

RIP PHA we hardly got to know you, and any new materials making their way through academia and universities are dead on arrival. 

Am I being too negative or do new materials or compostable solutions have a realistic path to market in the face of 4-5X EPR fees and a non-recyclable label?

#plastics #sustainability #recycling #EPR

Chicago Sustainable Dining Tip! 😋 

Amazing dining at Maxwells Trading - it's a #Michelin-rated Chicago restaurant that's walking distance from the Elevate Packaging office.

Check out their seasonal menu offerings!
Maxwells Trading --> https://lnkd.in/gzWHwzjr

They too are obsessed with #sustainability and #community too!

I love that they collaborate with their sustainable neighbors: THE ROOF CROP INDUSTRIES / FARM / FOUNDATION, Third Season Shop and Flashpoint Innovation.  All are actually tenants in the same building, invested in the mission of mitigating climate change through productive green urban space.
The Roof Crop --> https://lnkd.in/gE8NSWKQ

Wow! ⭐  Delicious, Sustainable, Chicago! 

Make a reservation for dinner, or even a cup of coffee - support these amazing sustainable businesses! 😋 

Maxwells Trading is the brainchild of Underscore Hospitality partners Joshua Tilden and Erling Wu-Bower
 #SpecialtyFood #PlasticFreePackaging #CleanLabel #SustainableBranding #sustianabledining Green Restaurant Association 
Choose Chicago Choose Chicago Visitor Welcome Center  Michelin Guide

Open article: The Roof Crop by thirdseason.com

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