Of earthworms Charles Darwin wrote, “It may be doubted if there are any other
animals which have played such an important part in the history of the world as
these lowly organized creatures.” With the help of a talented social
entrepreneur, hard work, and good luck, earthworms are making history again at
TerraCycle Inc.
in Trenton, N.J. The eco-friendly gardening supply company, which turns worm
castings into organic liquid plant fertilizer, is growing faster than a wonga
wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana) in springtime. It’s also affirming the
green movement’s place in mainstream business.
TerraCycle not only takes worm castings – the technical term for worm poop –
and makes organic plant food, but also uses recycled soda bottles and other
recycled containers to package all its products. Although the company purchases
most of its recycled packaging from professional suppliers, it also reimburses
charities and schoolchildren for sending in their recyclables. TerraCycle buys
the castings from independent worm farmers around the country and then brews
them in big tanks at a Trenton facility called “the worm gin.” “Better, greener,
cheaper” is the company’s motto.