Proven Winners Eco+ containers win 2023 Sustainability Product of the Year

In recognition of its revolutionary engineering and contribution to reducing the industry’s reliance on single-use plastic, Proven Winners Eco+ containers was awarded the 2023 Sustainability Product of the Year by Business Intelligence Group. Eco+ containers are comprised of 100% natural plant material instead of traditional petroleum-based plastic.

“We are proud to reward and recognize Proven Winners for their sustainability efforts,” Maria Jimenez, chief nominations officer for Business Intelligence Group, said. “It was clear to our judges that their vision and strategy will continue to deliver results toward a cleaner, more sustainable world.”

The 2023 Sustainability Product of the Year award is given each year to organizations that have launched or completed a physical product within the last 12 months that improves sustainability or is designed to be more eco-friendly than market alternatives.

“After years of research and development, we’re excited that the Eco+ line of containers is an innovative solution for commercial growers, retailers and home gardeners to reduce the industry’s reliance on single-use plastics,” Dave Konsoer, vice president of sales for Proven Winners said.  “The Eco+ Container is one exciting step Proven Winners is taking to help make the green industry a bit greener.”

Made from natural sugars derived from corn kernels, Eco+ Grande and Eco+ Quart containers look, act and perform like plastic pots but break back down completely over time. The sturdy composition is strong enough to last through grower production and on retail shelves. However, the products are designed to decompose once exposed to heat and moisture in home gardens or during the industrial composting process.

Eco+ containers are plantable and the easy-to-use design makes it simple for home gardeners to plant right into containers or landscapes. The walls of the container are infused with organic nutrients which boost plant growth. Consumers can choose not to plant the Eco+ containers, and instead can bring the product to an industrial composting facility for processing. Even if thrown away, the 100% plant-based containers will break down much faster than traditional plastic. No petroleum drilling is involved in its creation; it is eco-friendly from the start.

Eco+ containers are designed, manufactured and assembled responsibly at VistaTek of Stillwater, Minnesota. This centralized location helps to reduce their carbon footprint for U.S. and Canadian markets.

“It is an honor to have our product recognized in this industry for sustainability,” Danny Mishek, inventor and manufacturer of Eco+ containers, said. “To make a difference using innovation and technology for the consideration of this planet is second to none. The Eco+ containers are one-of-a-kind plant pots that not only reduce the amount of plastic going to landfills, but also improve plant and soil health by delivering nutrients as they break down.”

For more information, visit provenwinners.com.