Earth First Services- Fort Wayne's Only Local Waste Management Provider

During 2010, Earth First was in the middle of a political back- and '"forth concerning their bid on trash and recycling here in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Earth First is the only locally owned waste management and recycling company and their website states that they are dedicated to the local economy, so it would seem that it would be a no-brainer to tip in their favor.

However, in a bidding process, the winner is usually the one on the low end and National Serv-All got the bid.

National Serv- All will also be instituting an easier method of recycling for consumers.

Earth First is capable of making contracts with other cities, and even neighborhood associations. Their model is one of innovation and total dedication to sustainable living practices and educating the public on the best ways to keep the earth clean.

I decided I wanted to find out more about the vision of Earth First and where they would like to see their company in 2014, so I contacted Gregg Walbridge and here is what I found out.

ABS) Tell us about how Earth First was founded, where it is located and how a potential consumer would contact Earth First?
GW) Earth First, LLC was founded in 2009 and is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana at 4524 Ellenwood Dr. It was started by me and former employees that worked with me when I was owner and president of National Serv-all.

We can be contacted by phone at 260-436-8700 or by email at earthfirst@earthfirstservices.com. You can find us on the web at www.earthfirstservices.com.

ABS) What is the vision of Earth First?
GW) The vision of Earth First is to provide our customers with environmentally friendly solid waste and recycling services in an exceptional manner at a fair price while providing opportunities for our employees and support for our community.

ABS) What sets Earth First apart from other recycling or waste management companies in your region?
GW) What sets Earth First apart from other companies is that we are a locally owned, private company. This allows us to remain focused on meeting our customers' needs instead of letting our stock price and shareholders be the priority as happens with the large public companies in our industry. This allows us to be innovative in finding the best solutions to fit our customers' needs.

ABS) Would you like to provide a mini-course in recycling? What is the simplest way to recycle in your opinion?
GW) The simplest methods for recycling are those that make it easiest for the customer. In residential recycling this is a single stream system where all of the recycling material is placed in one bin. In commercial recycling it consists of placing all recycling material in a front load container and in construction a similar process. This allows for greater participation.

ABS) What do you see Earth First as a company in the year 2014?
GW) We see Earth First as a regional company by 2014 and involved in all aspects of solid waste and recycling. We believe there will be a broader spectrum of recycling options by then with many more items being reused. Waste may even become a valuable feedstock in the creation of renewable energy. We will be a significant provider of these services.

Earth First, like many companies here in Fort Wayne is seeking to expand their 'local' vision. This is obvious in the branding that is taking place, not only in '˜green' businesses, but in Fort Wayne businesses on the whole.

Although, "local", will be the buzzword for the coming marketing strategies for the next decade, stretching will still capture investor dollars and their imaginations.