Solid waste is responsible for 12% of New York’s greenhouse gas emissions, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. That’s due in large part to the decay of organic materials like food in landfills.

In an effort to reduce that environmental impact, a Schenectady man is partnering with local businesses, schools and food pantries to recycle food scraps.

Cody Futia started his business VERMILUV a little more than a year and a half ago. Since then, he’s diverted more than 40,000 pounds of food waste from local landfills using vermicomposting, or worm composting.

“I can help give back to my community, I can help take care of the planet, and I can grow the best tasting vegetables and fruits that I’ve ever had in my life,” said Futia.

Futia has 200,000 worms, which speed up the composting process and break it down into a finer, more nutrient-dense soil amendment that he sells online and at local markets. It can be added to gardens, lawns and house plants, helping with water retention and plant growth.