Rich is a pioneer and leader in sustainable packaging. For 20 years he has been fearlessly dedicated to solving the challenging problems of packaging waste through innovation, research, and bringing real solutions to market. He is an experienced multidisciplinary entrepreneur educated in engineering management, business strategy, and technology.

Rich founded Elevate, the world's first company focused exclusively on compostable packaging and labels. He is a member of the USCC (US Compost Council) and is a founding member of the Corporate Compost Leadership Council.
Rich speaks to the opportunities and challenges of composting, packaging, and how we can work together to simplify the process of producing quality feedstock that rejuvenates the soil.

To unwind he ventures off to explore our natural world by hiking trails and running local races with his two amazing kids. Rich lives in Chicago with dreams of living in a mountain sanctuary surrounded by nature.  

Rich Cohen

founder Elevate