We have mentioned Atlasta Catering before, but we think it is worthwhile to talk a little bit more about our unique give and take relationship. Atlasta is a really cool company that does a ton of things to decrease their footprint and we wanted to shine a light on them for our readers.

First and foremost, Atlasta is an awesome catering company. They have a handful of dynamic menus that feature local and organic produce, that range from vegetarian to BBQ. Planning a green wedding or event? Look no further, Atlasta is your caterer.

As you know, we have a very happy flock of chickens here at Rhibafarms. One of the reasons that they are such happy birds is that they get to eat all of the left over scraps from Atlasta! These scraps consist of high quality fruits and veggies. Atlasta gives us their scraps and also purchases our fresh produce and eggs to add to their impressive list of ingredients.

Atlasta is more than just a catering company, they are also a big part of the community. One of the more interesting things Atlasta does to give back to their community is with their participation in the ASU school of sustainability. Steve Short, the owner of Atlasta along with Colin Tetreault teaches a class that uses the real life experiences from running a successful business as well as everything they have learned in shaping Atlasta into a green company.

Here is what they have to say about the class:

“The class is called SOS 494, it is a senior-level capstone course that embodies – in a practical workshop style – the comprehensive education that the seniors have received in their years at ASU and the School of Sustainability. We work to provide an opportunity where they can learn how to utilize their knowledge in a practical manner of doing business. Indeed, they learn how to make positive change via smart, sophisticated, and progressive business models. We give them access to our company, involve them in our operations, teach them what it is to operate a business…all while tempering the work with principles of sustainability.

At the moment, it is the only course of its kind being offered by the entire School of Sustainability; Atlasta is at the core of the experience. We truly believe in providing the Change Agents of tomorrow with a progressive and real-world experience in which they can apply their learning. Atlasta also benefits by having the brightest minds working to address – in innovative, yet scientifically grounded ways – tough issues that we face from a sustainability and operations perspective.

We consider ourselves fortunate to be involved with the nation’s first school of sustainability and look forward to seeing not only our company, but the students, grow and develop into leaders of sustainability.”