2025 Summit for Recycling Agenda

June 2nd | June 3rd | June 4th

Monday, June 2nd

9:00 am | Hike in Grand Junction

1:00 pm - 5:30 pm | Policy Retreat

The Policy Retreat is the Policy Committee's annual gathering of members to review  legislative activity from 2025 and to strategize efforts to support in 2026. This will be an interactive meeting with workshop time with fellow sector members.

5:30 pm - 8:00 pm | Welcome Reception

Come meet the attendees and exhibitors at our fun kickoff event before we dive into our conference sessions and workshops. Drinks and snacks and networking, Oh My!

Tuesday, June 3rd

7:15 am - 8:00 am | Coffee Walk | Downtown Grand Junction

8:00 am - 9:00 am | Breakfast

• C&D Council Meeting in Colorado 3 Breakout Room
• Young Professionals meet up in Creek Breakout Room

8:45 am - 9:45 am | Welcome and Keynote

Building a Sustainable Circular Economy with the C3 Program
Liz Kuhn and Kathleen Hynes from the Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Enterprise team
Dive into how the Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Enterprise supports local businesses, nonprofits, and communities in building a sustainable circular economy. With funding opportunities, rebate programs, and expert guidance, C3 helps drive innovation and collaboration to create a more resilient, resource-efficient future for Colorado.

Download Keynote Slides

9:45 am - 10:00 am | Stretch, Coffee, Snack, Exhibitors

10:00 am - 11:30 am | Breakout Sessions

• Unlocking Circularity: C3’s STEPS Program for Public Entities
• Liz Kuhn with the Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Enterprise
• This interactive workshop will explore C3’s STEPS program, designed to assist municipalities, public K-12 school districts, and tribes with implementing circularity. Participants will engage in collaborative discussions on key challenges in policy, stakeholder engagement, and program implementation. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and solutions to advance circular economy initiatives within their communities.

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• Economics of Deconstruction and Demolition
• Anna Perks owner of Perks Deconstruction, Joe Pitts with Resource Central, and Marianna Sparks with Property Pro’s

• Have you heard that it takes more time, resources, and money to deconstruct a building than demolishing it? Hear about how and when deconstruction can make financial sense from an appraiser, deconstruction contractor and reuse center expert. Session will include information on how you can recover the costs of deconstruction through assessment of the materials, relevant IRS tax codes, donation of materials to non-profits and more.

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• Organic Matter Matters
• Clinton Sander with A1 Organics and Rutger Myers with Eco-Cycle
• Organic matter in the soil, derived from compost application, plays a transformative role in creating resilient and sustainable ecosystems. By enhancing water retention, compost helps soil hold moisture longer, reducing the need for frequent irrigation and ensuring plants receive a consistent water supply during dry spells. Additionally, the rich organic content fosters robust microbial activity, stimulating beneficial soil organisms that break down organic material and release essential nutrients. These microbes not only improve soil fertility but also contribute to a healthier, more dynamic soil structure. Here from 4 key stakeholders in the world of soil as they highlight the vital benefits of compost for water conservation and vibrant microbial life.

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• From Bins to Wins: Strategies to Boost Your Recycling Engagement
• Chandra Valenza with Boulder County, Amelia Kovacs with Walking Mountains, Ryan Buhay from Recycle Coach, Christy Turner with High Country Conservation Center and Doug Bair with the Summit County Volunteer Foam Recycling Group
• Workshop that highlights varying perspectives on how to ramp up recycling excitement within Colorado communities in the 21stCentury. From counties utilizing social media as a form of outreach, to the use of apps as a direct connection to consumers, and the importance of volunteer groups to drive home neighborhood commitment. This hands-on session will offer realistic strategies and options, for local governments and those sustainably focused!

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11:30 pm - 12:30 pm | Lunch & Exhibitor Energy Booster

• Colorado Composting Council leadership meeting in Creek breakout room

• Glass Recycling: Where we are and where we are going as a state
• Celene Peck-Adreano with Glass to Glass, Liz Mauro with South Canyon Landfill, and Jimena Baldino with the City of Aspen
• At this session you will learn about the glass recycling process in Colorado, where we are and where we’re going at a state level. You will leave this session empowered to improve the glass recycling processes at your local municipality and know what funds and resources are available in Colorado.

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• Large Processor Innovations
• Scott Hutchings with WM, Mark Ceresa with Waste Connections, Jon Gertsmeier from AMP, and Joe Riconoscuito with Republic Services
• Colorado has the good fortune to have several waste and recycling companies at the forefront of innovative practices. We will get updates and a glimpse into the future of how Republic, WM, and Waste Connections are working to enhance the sustainability of waste operations and improve recycling outcomes. These experts will offer insights into the challenges and successes of incorporating technology into their operations, now and in the future.

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• Innovations in Organics Circularity
• Vann Fussell from Living Memorial Institute, Nikki Chernick with Vanguard Renewables, Robert Tepperberg with Auraria Sustainable Campus, moderated by Rylee McCone with Auraria Sustainable Campus
• Transform organic waste from problem to opportunity. Beyond traditional composting, new technologies enable complete circularity while reducing methane emissions. Hear from experts in anaerobic digestion, aerobic technology, and human biomass management about innovations that convert organic materials into energy, soil amendments, and landscapes for memorialization.

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• Grand Junction Compost Program and Farm Trial Study
• Shawn Bruckman from the Ground Up, Jeff Pieper with CSU Extension, Angela French with the City of Grand Junction, and Jennifer Richardson with Mesa County Solid Waste

• In 2023 the City of Grand Junction was awarded USDA grant funding to implement an organic waste diversion and compost utilization study. Through partnerships with CSU Extension, Mesa County, The Ground Up and other local organizations, they developed a 2 year project to build an organic waste collection route to divert organic waste from hunger relief organizations, schools, hospitals and restaurants, and to offer community education. On-farm trials were also conducted using field test assessments to demonstrate municipal compost use in various crops including tree fruit, vegetables, and cut flowers. Data gathered from this project was used to establish municipal compost use guidelines for home owners and growers in Mesa County.

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• Quality of Life Counts Too: How Diversion Goals Interlink with Community Safety, Health, and Happiness
• Ellen Orleans with the City of Boulder & Shelly Fuller with Boulder County
• This presentation explores diversion efforts in disproportionately impacted communities.  Addressing environmental hazards and improving infrastructure, we’ll also examine the human and logistical sides of hazardous material and hard-to-recycle collection events, including fire mitigation, community safety, resident leadership, and family well-being. Participant engagement session also included.

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• Deconstruction Reuse Warehouses
• Sarah Miller with Revolve Reclaimed LLC, Joe Pitts with Resource Central, Anna Perks owner of Perks Deconstruction, Natalie Trecker with the Motherlode Mercantile in Pitkin County, moderated by Cameron Garcia with Pitkin County

• Strengthening our local circular economies mean going beyond recycling your bottles and cans; it means reimagining reuse of everything from your windows to your walls to your bathroom stalls. Panelists will provide insight into how we can better recover and re-distribute high-quality building materials back into our communities at affordable prices. Speakers represent reuse warehouses from across Colorado, including from the Western Slopes, mountain communities and the Front Range.

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2:15 pm - 5:00 pm | Tours & Media Training Session

• Leveraging Media to Drive Results
• Tamara Chuang with the Colorado Sun and Marissa Heffernan with Resource Recycling
• In this session, professional journalists will discuss best practices on how to engage media effectively to tell your organization’s story, drive sustainability outcomes, and engage new communities. 

TOURS
All tours will have buses provided for transportation. Stairs are apart of loading and unloading of buses.

• Waste Management 101: This tour will have uneven ground, stairs, dust and loud noises from equipment. Participants will be standing outdoors for the duration of the tour. Longer pants, closed shoes are encouraged. Additional PPE is optional to bring.
• City of Grand Junction Recycle Center: Get an exclusive tour of the City of Grand Junction’s municipally owned Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), where innovation and sustainability come together. This facility plays a vital role in the community’s recycling efforts and has been transforming waste into valuable resources for years. Learn about its growth and evolution, made possible in part by Colorado’s Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity (RREO) program—now known as C3. Get a sneak peek into the future with plans for the first regional MRF on the Western Slope. Whether you're a local resident, industry professional, or sustainability advocate, this tour offers a unique opportunity to see recycling and resource stewardship in action.
• Western Metals Recycling: Explore one of the area’s few dedicated metal recycling facilities and learn how metal is processed for reuse. See firsthand how metals are collected, sorted, and refined to reduce waste and conserve resources. Discover the types of metals recycled, the technology used, and the environmental benefits of the process. Whether you're passionate about sustainability or just curious, this tour offers a valuable look at the crucial role metal recycling plays in our economy. Please note: Attendees must wear long pants and close-toed shoes for safety.
• Mesa County Solid Waste Campus: Join us for a tour of Mesa County’s waste diversion management programs and see how the community is working towards a more sustainable future. The tour begins at the Hazardous Waste Management Facility, one of only eight in Colorado. Learn how this facility safely handles and disposes of household hazardous materials to protect both public health and the environment. Next, we’ll visit the Organic Materials Composting Facility, where residential yard waste and agricultural waste are transformed into Mesa Magic compost. See how organic materials are processed into nutrient-rich compost that benefits local gardens and farms. During the compost tour, we’ll showcase the equipment that helps make this process possible. Be sure to stop by the vendor booths at the Summit to learn more about the tools and technology driving sustainability in the industry.
  

• Organics Application on the Western Slope: This tour will have uneven ground and dust. Participants will be standing outdoors for the duration of the tour. Longer pants, closed shoes are encouraged. Additional PPE is optional to bring.
• Clifton Community Center: Join us for a tour to see how Mesa Magic compost is making a difference in the community! Visit the new Clifton Community Center, where compost is used to enrich the landscaping that surrounds this vibrant community hub. Families can enjoy a variety of amenities, including the library, childcare center, gym with basketball courts, and other community events, all set against the backdrop of lush, thriving greenery made possible by the use of compost. Learn how the addition of compost improves soil health, supports sustainable landscaping, and contributes to a beautiful, functional public space.
• Clark & Co Distilling brought to you by Clark Family Orchard: Discover the full-circle craft of Clark & Co’s Distilling, where the fruit grown just steps away at Clark Family Orchard is transformed into exceptional, small-batch spirits. This immersive tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at their sustainable distilling process, from harvesting orchard-fresh peaches, pears, apples, and plums to the final pour. You'll see how they reduce waste, honor generations of family tradition, and put every part of the fruit to good use—a fresh take on farm-to-bottle you can truly taste.
• Sauvage Spectrum Winery: Join us at one of the area's premier wineries for a unique tour that highlights the impact of compost application and sustainable farming practices on grape yields. Learn how the use of compost contributes to healthier soil and better-quality grapes, enhancing the winery’s production process from grape to glass. After the tour, enjoy the fruits of the harvest with a glass of wine, showcasing the winery’s products made possible by sustainable farming practices. Please note, attendees must purchase wine separately. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and local wine production!
• Innovation in the Grand Valley: This tour will have uneven ground and dust. Participants will be standing outdoors for the duration of the tour. Longer pants, closed shoes are encouraged. Additional PPE is optional to bring.
• CSU Agricultural Experiment Station: Join us for a tour at the CSU Agricultural Experiment Station, where you'll learn about groundbreaking farming practices and water conservation efforts. Discover how innovative techniques, including the application of biochar, are helping to conserve water, improve soil health, and enhance soil biota for more sustainable farming practices. See firsthand how biochar is applied to improve water retention in the soil, reduce irrigation needs, and foster a healthier environment for crops.
• Business Incubator - CEDC & SURPstone: Discover how the Business Incubator Center (BIC) has been driving economic growth and supporting local businesses in Mesa County for over 25 years. Located on a 47-acre campus, BIC houses more than 79 startup businesses at any given time, offering facilities like manufacturing, technology, services, a commercial kitchen, makerspace, and training & conference spaces. During the tour, you'll learn about BIC's mission to foster sustainable job creation and economic diversification, as well as the impressive success of its graduates. Explore the Colorado Circular Economy Development Center (CEDC), an initiative helping businesses transition to more sustainable practices, and see how companies like Surpstone are revolutionizing industries with innovative solutions like recycling plastic into eco-friendly aggregates.
  

Join us in celebrating the many people working to reduce waste and increase recycling and composting across Colorado. There will be delicious food, networking, and fun games with music from Chuck J!

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Wednesday, June 4th

7:45 am - 8:00 am | Art Walk | Downtown Grand Junction
Meet in the entrance of the convention center with the group local leader and walk to their favorite spots to view local art - LET US KNOW YOU'RE INTERESTED

8:30 am - 9:15 am | Breakfast

• Greater Colorado Council Meeting in Creek Room

9:15 - 10:15 a.m. | Welcome and Keynote

Producer Responsibility: Charting Colorado’s Path Toward Circularity
Rob Writz with Circular Action Alliance, Wolf Kray with Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Kelly Duran with LPMA powered by Interchange360 Recycling, and Liz Chapman with Recycle Colorado.
Colorado’s landmark Producer Responsibility law is reshaping the state’s recycling system—and collaboration is key. This dynamic session will explore how Circular Action Alliance and the Lubricants Packaging Management Association is working with interest-holders to tackle early challenges, and seize opportunities to build a more circular, equitable system. Whether you’re looking for clarity, connection, or a way to get more involved, this session will offer practical insights and an open dialogue about what Producer Responsibility means for Colorado’s communities.

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10:15 am - 10:30 am | Passing Period, Snacks & Coffee, Exhibitor Showcase

10:30 am - 12:00 pm | Breakout Sessions

• Closing the Loop: Innovations for a Sustainable Future
• Adam Peer with the American Chemistry Council, Omar Terrie with Alterra, and Leslie Schrof from LyondellBasell
• This panel discussion will highlight the latest in sortation and advanced recycling technologies that are driving the transition to a circular economy. This session will showcase the entire process—from sourcing and processing materials to the innovative companies leading the charge in transforming waste into valuable materials used to make new packaging and products. We’ll explore how advanced recycling technologies are helping enable brands to create sustainable packaging by utilizing feedstocks and resins derived from recycled materials. This will provide an opportunity to learn from industry leaders and discover how these cutting-edge solutions are reshaping the future of packaging and waste management.

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• Changes to the CDPHE Waste Tires Program due to the passage of SB 24-123
• Shana Baker and Michelle Kelble with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment
• Waste tires and changes to the CDPHE Waste Tires Program due to the passage of Senate Bill 24-123. Changes include the creation of a Waste Tire Management Enterprise and how this Enterprise will aid in the proper management of waste tires by providing financial incentives and rebates for the recycling of waste tires into end-use tire-derived products. Also discussion of current waste tire recycling/reuse trends.

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• Working with Food Rescue Groups to Reduce Food Waste in Colorado
• Diane Calvin with Cafe Food Rescue, Rita Mary Hennigan with UpRoot, and moderator Rachel Setzke from Eco-Cycle
• Donating edible food complements composting of non-edible food scraps and yard trimmings as powerful actions we need to take to divert organics from Colorado landfills. Colorado has a network of food rescue organizations working to move edible food to people who need it. Food rescue groups can also be valuable partners in educating businesses and residents about food waste reduction practices. Learn about food rescue organizations in our state, how municipalities and businesses can connect with them, and what communities can do if they don't already have such an organization. 

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• Organic Waste Diversion Program - Aspen’s case study
• Jimena Baldino with the City of Aspen and David Reindel with Evergreen Zerowaste

• In this session, we’ll discuss the challenges and successes encountered during the implementation of the City of Aspen Organic Waste Diversion Ordinance. We’ll explore the perspectives from both the local government and the waste hauler, EverGreen ZeroWaste, to provide a comprehensive understanding of this initiative.

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• Spread Compost, Spread Awareness
• Jess Anderson with A1 Organics, Vann Fussell with Adapt Soil Partners, Liz Mauro with the South Canyon Landfill, moderated by Clinton Sander with A1 Organics
• Completing the loop on organics circularity: an interactive conversation about the logistics of using compost. Speakers will describe how compost is used in their region, who is using it and how, and where we could use more compost in our communities.  Participants will ask questions and discuss their unique roadblocks to using finished compost.  

Download Presentation Slides

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Lunch

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm | Breakout Sessions

• Zero Waste Toolkits for the Food Service Industry
• Molly Saylor with MKS Sustainability Consulting and Amber Barbella owner of Diversion Designers
• This session will showcase zero-waste restaurant toolkits from around the country, highlight best practices vetted through restaurant outreach, and introduce a “work-in-progress” toolkit communities can purchase and tailor. Local governments wishing to develop their own toolkit will benefit from best practice research, restaurant engagement findings, and discussion of industry needs.

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• Compostables in Compost: Where Do We Go From Here?
• Alex Trulove with the Biodegradable Products Institute, Meghan Ibach with Eco-Products, Mellik Gorton with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Julie Mach with Elements Mountain Compost, and Brian Loma with Green Latinos
• Colorado quickly became the first state to support composting through EPR packaging policy and strict on-product labeling requirements. Yet, most Colorado residents don’t have access to compost, and the acceptance of certified compostable products to divert organic waste remains a challenge. Hear from experts across the compost industry, from leaders in composting, government, compostable packaging, certification, and community organizing to discuss how Colorado can continue to integrate compostables to improve outcomes. 

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• Contracted Hauling Crash Course: How to do it and when, and lessons learned from those who survived.
• Emily Wenger and Caroline Mitchell with HDR Engineering, and Samantha Grant with the City of Golden

• Explore municipal waste collection models from open market to contracted systems and hear lessons learned from Fort Collins and Golden. Participants will identify their current waste collection system, examine policy options, and engage with peers facing similar.

Download Presentation Slides

All tours will have buses provided for transportation. Stairs are apart of loading and unloading of buses.

• COCC On-Farm Compost Workshop: The Colorado Composting Council is hosting a hands on workshop to learn techniques and best practices for turning agricultural waste into a valuable soil amendment.
  
• Waste Management 101: This tour will have uneven ground, stairs, dust and loud noises from equipment. Participants will be standing outdoors for the duration of the tour. Longer pants, closed shoes are encouraged. Additional PPE is optional to bring.
• City of Grand Junction Recycle Center: Get an exclusive tour of the City of Grand Junction’s municipally owned Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), where innovation and sustainability come together. This facility plays a vital role in the community’s recycling efforts and has been transforming waste into valuable resources for years. Learn about its growth and evolution, made possible in part by Colorado’s Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity (RREO) program—now known as C3. Get a sneak peek into the future with plans for the first regional MRF on the Western Slope. Whether you're a local resident, industry professional, or sustainability advocate, this tour offers a unique opportunity to see recycling and resource stewardship in action.
• WM: Step inside the only privately-owned Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Grand Junction for an exclusive look at how sustainability and innovation drive its success. Learn about the unique recycling processes that help this facility thrive in a small community and contribute to the region’s waste management solutions. A highlight of the tour is the chance to see the fleet of natural gas-run vehicles in action, powered directly on-site, reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener future. Please note: Attendees must wear long pants and close-toed shoes for safety.
• Mesa County Solid Waste Campus: Join us for a tour of Mesa County’s waste diversion management programs and see how the community is working towards a more sustainable future. The tour begins at the Hazardous Waste Management Facility, one of only eight in Colorado. Learn how this facility safely handles and disposes of household hazardous materials to protect both public health and the environment. Next, we’ll visit the Organic Materials Composting Facility, where residential yard waste and agricultural waste are transformed into Mesa Magic compost. See how organic materials are processed into nutrient-rich compost that benefits local gardens and farms. During the compost tour, we’ll showcase the equipment that helps make this process possible. Be sure to stop by the vendor booths at the Summit to learn more about the tools and technology driving sustainability in the industry.
• Organics Application on the Western Slope: This tour will have uneven ground and dust. Participants will be standing outdoors for the duration of the tour. Longer pants, closed shoes are encouraged. Additional PPE is optional to bring.
• Clifton Community Center: Join us for a tour to see how Mesa Magic compost is making a difference in the community! Visit the new Clifton Community Center, where compost is used to enrich the landscaping that surrounds this vibrant community hub. Families can enjoy a variety of amenities, including the library, childcare center, gym with basketball courts, and other community events, all set against the backdrop of lush, thriving greenery made possible by the use of compost. Learn how the addition of compost improves soil health, supports sustainable landscaping, and contributes to a beautiful, functional public space.
• Clark & Co Distilling brought to you by Clark Family Orchard: Discover the full-circle craft of Clark & Co’s Distilling, where the fruit grown just steps away at Clark Family Orchard is transformed into exceptional, small-batch spirits. This immersive tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at their sustainable distilling process, from harvesting orchard-fresh peaches, pears, apples, and plums to the final pour. You'll see how they reduce waste, honor generations of family tradition, and put every part of the fruit to good use—a fresh take on farm-to-bottle you can truly taste.
• Sauvage Spectrum Winery: Join us at one of the area's premier wineries for a unique tour that highlights the impact of compost application and sustainable farming practices on grape yields. Learn how the use of compost contributes to healthier soil and better-quality grapes, enhancing the winery’s production process from grape to glass. After the tour, enjoy the fruits of the harvest with a glass of wine, showcasing the winery’s products made possible by sustainable farming practices. Please note, attendees must purchase wine separately.
  
• Innovation in the Grand Valley: This tour will have uneven ground and dust. Participants will be standing outdoors for the duration of the tour. Longer pants, closed shoes are encouraged. Additional PPE is optional to bring.
• CSU Agricultural Experiment Station: Join us for a tour at the CSU Agricultural Experiment Station, where you'll learn about groundbreaking farming practices and water conservation efforts. Discover how innovative techniques, including the application of biochar, are helping to conserve water, improve soil health, and enhance soil biota for more sustainable farming practices. See firsthand how biochar is applied to improve water retention in the soil, reduce irrigation needs, and foster a healthier environment for crops.
• Business Incubator - CEDC & SURPstone: Discover how the Business Incubator Center (BIC) has been driving economic growth and supporting local businesses in Mesa County for over 25 years. Located on a 47-acre campus, BIC houses more than 79 startup businesses at any given time, offering facilities like manufacturing, technology, services, a commercial kitchen, makerspace, and training & conference spaces. During the tour, you'll learn about BIC's mission to foster sustainable job creation and economic diversification, as well as the impressive success of its graduates. Explore the Colorado Circular Economy Development Center (CEDC), an initiative helping businesses transition to more sustainable practices, and see how companies like Surpstone are revolutionizing industries with innovative solutions like recycling plastic into eco-friendly aggregates.

5:30 pm | Happy Hour

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Exhibiting at the Summit

As part of our Recycle Colorado membership and Summit sponsorship benefits, there is the option to have an exhibitor booth at the conference. This would be your opportunity to showcase your business in the main spaces where the conference is held to connect with attendees. A space with a table, table covering, and chairs is provided for you. Bring you to signage and materials to make the space your own!

Thank you to our 2025 Summit for Recycling Sponsors

Leader

Activator

Educator

Awards

Spotlight

Thank you to our 2025 Summit for Recycling Exhibitors!

• Diverse
• Eco-Products
• LPMA powered by Interchange 360
• Midwest Bio-Systems
• OI Glass and Glass to Glass
• Power Equipment Company
• Rehrig Pacific Company
• TOMRA

• AMP
• Circular Action Alliance
• Colorado Circular Communities (C3)
• HDR Engineering, Inc.
• PaintCare
• Power Screening
• RecycleCoach
• Sustainable Generation
• The Recycling Partnership

2025 Summit for Recycling Speakers

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Jessica Anderson
A1 Organics Regulatory and Science
Most used acronym: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment  or CDPHE, Colorado Department of Agriculture or CDA, Colorado Composting Council or COCC, and US Composting Council or USCC

Science and law regarding regulation should always be the best partners. While working in the pharmaceutical industry for the human and animal sectors as a microbiologist, I was fortunate enough to learn the balance between innovation, safety, and compliance. Later, while working for an international agricultural company, I witnessed firsthand how regulations can be manipulated or misapplied, often to the detriment of both individuals and the environment. These experiences fueled my commitment to ensuring that regulatory frameworks serve their true purpose — protecting public health, supporting ethical scientific progress, and safeguarding ecosystems. Today, I advocate for evidence-based policy making, transparency, and integrity in regulatory practices, drawing on just over a decade of interdisciplinary expertise at the intersection of science, industry, and law.

Celene Andreano
General Manager, Glass to Glass, Recycle Colorado Member since 2022
She/Her
Most used acronym: Glass to Glass or GTG

Celene Andreano is the manager of Glass to Glass, Colorado's only dedicated glass processing facility. Based in Broomfield, this innovative company plays a pivotal role in the state's recycling ecosystem by transforming used glass containers—such as bottles and jars—into clean, reusable cullet. This cullet is then supplied to the Rocky Mountain Bottle Company (RMBC) in Wheatridge, and O-I in Windsor, where it is melted and remade into new glass bottles, often within a mere 2 to 4 weeks. 

Under Andreano's leadership, Glass to Glass has become a cornerstone of Colorado's circular economy. The company offers glass collection bins to municipalities, businesses and residents, facilitating convenient recycling and reducing landfill waste. By processing glass locally, Glass to Glass not only conserves energy—since recycled glass melts at a lower temperature—but also supports local industries by providing a steady supply of recycled material. 

Andreano is also an active advocate for statewide recycling reform. She has collaborated with organizations like Eco-Cycle and Recycle Colorado to promote legislation aimed at improving recycling access and infrastructure across the state. Her efforts reflect a commitment to both environmental sustainability and community engagement, positioning Glass to Glass as a leader in Colorado's recycling landscape.

Connect with Celene: Website

Doug Bair
Group Leader for Summit County Foam Recycling
He/Him

I am a retired psychotherapist. Part of my retirement plan is to do what I can to help with environmental issues. To that end, I recycle and compost at home. I volunteer with our local environmental organization, High Country conservation (HC3). I was on a committee for 2 years to help "convince" the Suncor oil refinery to stop polluting. And for the last 3 years I've been keeping as much styrofoam from the dump as has been possible. But I have reached the end of how much my volunteer organization can handle. That is why I am reaching out to other organizations to help with or take over the effort.

Shana Baker, MAS, REHS
Waste Tires Work Leader, Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
She/Her
Most used acronym: CDPHE or Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and HMWMD or Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division

Shana is the Waste Tires Work Leader for the Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment where she is responsible for the oversight of the Waste Tire Program. She has been with CDPHE for over 20 years. She is a graduate of Colorado State University with a B.S. in Environmental Health, and she holds a master’s degree from the University of Denver in Environmental Policy and Management. Shana enjoys traveling, hiking, and working out on her Peloton bike.

Jimena Baldino
Waste Diversion and Recycling Specialist, Environmental Health and Sustainability department, City of Aspen
She/Her
Most used acronym: EHS or Environmental Health and Sustainability

Jimena is the Waste Diversion and Recycling Specialist with the City of Aspen’s Climate Action Office under the Environmental Health and Sustainability department. Her primary focus is on the different recycling and composting programs run by the City of Aspen, City of Aspen’s special recycling drop-off events planning and execution, approval of private Special Events and oversight of the local Recycle Center. She’s passionate about education and community outreach related to climate change and waste diversion.

Connect with Jimena: LinkedIn

Amber Barbella
Owner, Diversion Designers
She/Her

Amber Barbella, founder and owner of Diversion Designers, has built her company with the mission to transform how organizations approach waste through innovative closed-loop systems. Blending her background in environmental studies and art, she brings creative problem-solving to resource conservation challenges across Colorado.

Her career spans conducting waste characterization studies, leading Reuse Denver, managing complex event waste operations, and pioneering creative diversion programs. This diverse experience enables her to identify unique opportunities where others see only waste.

Driven by altruism and a commitment to resource reallocation, Amber views discarded materials not as problems but as valuable assets with untapped potential. This philosophy extends beyond environmental impact to creating community-level opportunities for meaningful change.

Under her leadership, Diversion Designers has emerged as a leading Colorado' zero-waste management company. Her team helps organizations translate sustainability values into measurable environmental outcomes through customized sorting systems and comprehensive waste diversion strategies that keep valuable resources circulating in the local economy rather than languishing in landfills.

Connect with Amber: Website

Ryan Buhay
Head of Sales, Recycle Coach
He/Him

Ryan Buhay is a seasoned leader in recycling education and digital engagement, currently serving as Head of Sales at Recycle Coach—a SaaS platform that helps municipalities and haulers reduce contamination and boost recycling participation through technology and behavior change strategies.

With over 13 years of experience in the waste and recycling industry, Ryan brings a unique blend of subject matter expertise and startup grit to the public sector. He has helped scale Recycle Coach across hundreds of communities in North America, supporting local governments with mobile and web tools that make waste and recycling communication easier, smarter, and more effective.

Whether he’s speaking to a room of municipal leaders or working directly with public works teams, Ryan champions data-driven solutions and collaborative partnerships. He’s a frequent speaker at industry events, where he shares insights on community engagement, program success metrics, and emerging best practices in waste diversion. 

Outside of work, Ryan lives on Vancouver Island, Canada, with his wife and two young kids where he spends his time exploring the many hiking trails and beaches of the South Island.

Connect with Ryan: LinkedIn

Diane Calvin
Ex. Director, CAFE Food Rescue
She/Her
Most used acronym: Cafe Food Rescue or CFR

Diane Calvin is the founder of CAFE Food Rescue. She held the vision of a food rescue organization for Summit County in her heart for many years. When COVID hit and food insecurity grew in Summit County, she decided to start CAFE Food Rescue, beginning as the sole worker, picking up and distributing food herself. As she found more support and help from friends, she began writing grant proposals and expanding the food rescued and redistributed. In 2024, CAFE Food Rescue recovered and distributed 125,000 pounds of food in their community. 

She has degrees in civil engineering and a background in solid waste management. When living in Massachusetts, she worked with schools and secured grants to recover organic waste from lunches and improve recycling programs. When the family moved to Rhode Island, she continued to promote food rescue. She was a part of the RI Food Policy Council working to reduce wasted food. She also founded foodSCAPE, a nonprofit that worked with schools to divert food scraps into compost, piloted food recovery from the Summer Meals Program in Providence, and defined and published guidelines for donation of commercially packaged food and whole fruit from school lunches.

She believes deeply in her community and that people care for others and for protecting our unique and fragile environment.

Connect with Diane: LinkedIn, FaceBook, Website

Nikki Chernick
Organics Market Manager, Vanguard Renewables
She/Her
Most used acronym: AD, Anaerobic Digester or ORA, Organics Receiving Area

Nikki Chernick is a climate and sustainability consultant with a passion for making a meaningful impact at the intersection of clean energy, regenerative agriculture, and waste management. 

In her role as Organics Market Manager at Vanguard Renewables, Nikki is helping to launch organic waste solutions in Colorado and across the U.S. Through its nationwide network of anaerobic digesters, Vanguard Renewables helps convert organic waste into renewable natural gas and zero-carbon fertilizer, significantly contributing to the reduction of reliance on fossil fuels and the fight against climate change. Nikki works with food waste generators to find creative and sustainable solutions for organic waste. 

Nikki’s dedication to nature-based, circular solutions underscores her belief in the power of natural ecosystems to mitigate climate change and enhance biodiversity. Nikki has spearheaded comprehensive projects for various sectors and industries, including pets, sports, entertainment, hospitality, manufacturing, agriculture, government, and non-profit. 

Nikki holds a Master’s degree in Sustainability and Climate Resiliency from the University of Colorado Boulder and a Bachelor’s degree in International Communications from Penn State University.

Connect with Nikki: LinkedIn

Tamara Chuang
Reporter, The Colorado Sun
She/Her

Tamara Chuang writes about Colorado business and the local economy for The Colorado Sun, which she cofounded in 2018 with a mission to make sure quality local journalism is a sustainable business. Her focus on the economy during the pandemic helped Coloradans struggling with job loss or business disruptions stay informed and her stories have won recognition from the state press association and the Society of Professional Journalists.

Connect with Tamara: LinkedIn, Website

Kelly Duran
Communications Director at LPMA powered by Interchange360 Recycling
She/Her
Most used acronym: LPMA or Lubricants Packaging Management Association

As the Director of Communications, Kelly leads the strategic development and execution of multi-jurisdictional marketing and communications initiatives, driving brand awareness, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management while working closely with the CEO and leveraging both internal and external resources to reach diverse audiences.

Kelly brings more than 15 years of communications and marketing experience to the team, including the past six years spent as the Director of Communications for Interchange Recycling, where she developed communications strategies for the EPR program for petroleum and automotive related products in British Columbia. 

Angela French
Recycling and Waste Reduction Supervisor
City of Grand Junction

Angela is the Recycling and Waste Reduction Supervisor for the City of Grand Junction, where she leads strategic initiatives in waste diversion, program development, and community engagement. With a strong commitment to resource stewardship, Angela works to advance the local circular economy and support a more resilient, sustainable, and economically vibrant future.

Shelly Fuller, CHMM
Boulder County Hazardous Materials Management Facility
She/Her
Most used acronym: HMMF or Hazardous Materials Management Facility

Shelly Fuller is the Hazardous Materials Program Manager for Boulder County, leading the daily operations of the hazardous materials program. Passionate about sustainability and safety, she collaborates with local businesses and community organizations to champion responsible hazardous waste management.

A dedicated industry leader, Shelly serves on the NAHMMA Board of Directors and is the President of the Rocky Mountain NAHMMA Chapter. Always eager to innovate, she actively tours facilities nationwide, seeking new ways to enhance efficiency—so if you're reading this, consider this your invitation to host her! She will reciprocate with an open invitation to tour her facility and may let you don a supplied air respirator. 

Shelly launched the nation’s first vape waste management program and advocates for battery stewardship across Colorado. A trailblazer with a deep commitment to environmental responsibility, she continuously works to shape the future of hazardous materials management.

Connect with Shelly: Website

Vann Fussell
Compost Colorado, Founder/Advisor
Adapt Soil Partners, Consultant
Living Memorial Institute, Founder

Vann Fussell bridges circularity and urban planning through two new innovative ventures. As Principal of Adapt Soil Partners, he creates scalable urban soil restoration projects that strengthen stormwater resilience while completing the loop in municipal composting programs. Through the Living Memorial Institute (Revive), he advocates for cemetery restoration and adaptation as vital green spaces ("upcycling dead spaces"). 

In 2022, Vann spearheaded a transformative initiative in Denver's Globeville neighborhood, distributing 75 cubic yards of compost across 75 households, demonstrating how municipal programs can directly benefit residents while advancing climate goals. His extensive involvement in Colorado's sustainability landscape—founding Compost Colorado, serving on Denver's Sustainability Advisory Council, and participating in the Waste No More Task Force—provides him unique insight into both the challenges and opportunities in municipal waste programs, particularly in returning valuable organic resources to communities.

Cameron Garcia
Solid Waste Diversion Analyst - Pitkin County

Cameron Garcia serves as the Solid Waste Diversion Analyst for the Pitkin County Solid Waste Center, where he oversees the Construction & Demolition Debris Recovery Program. He brings over 30 years of experience in the public and private waste management sectors, specializing in environmental restoration, hazardous materials, and sustainable waste diversion strategies.

Mr. Garcia holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Restoration and Waste Management from Colorado Mesa University and a Master of Public Administration in Environmental Policy from the University of Colorado-Denver. He is a Registered Environmental Manager (REM) with the National Registry of Environmental Professionals and a Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) through the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management.

In 2013, Mr. Garcia was appointed by then-Governor John Hickenlooper and confirmed by the Colorado Senate to serve as a Commissioner on the Colorado Solid and Hazardous Waste Commission. During his four-year tenure, he contributed to the passage of significant regulatory reforms, including updates to the state’s asbestos, waste tire, and pharmaceutical waste management rules.

Connect with Cameron: LinkedIn

Jon Gertsmeier
National Sales Director, AMP
He/Him
Most used acronym: MRF or materials recovery facility and MSW or municipal solid waste

Jon Gertsmeier is national director of enterprise sales for AMP, a provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered sortation at scale for the waste and recycling industry. He works with industry leaders to deploy AI-enabled retrofit and facility-scale solutions that increase productivity, overcome labor challenges, maximize purity rates, and generate more revenue for their recycling businesses.

Gertsmeier has more than 15 years of experience in the waste and recycling industry and a deep understanding of day-to-day MRF operations and the challenges of running a successful business. A trusted leader in the industry, he has held multiple roles in sales management and business development. He received a bachelor’s degree in business management from Indiana University.

Connect with Jon: LinkedIn

Mellik Gorton
Producer Responsibility Lead, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment
He/Him
Most used acronym: CDPHE or Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

Mellik Gorton has worked for Colorado’s Department of Public Health and Environment in the Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division for the past three years. He has overseen the paint stewardship program, electronics recycling facilities and the education and outreach for the Compostables Labeling Act. More recently, as of February 2025, he has become the Producer Responsibility lead, administering the advisory board and providing oversight to the program’s implementation. In addition to his role with CDPHE, he also serves on the Board of Recycle Colorado. Before his time with the State of Colorado, he managed the City & County of Denver’s waste hauler licensing. When not working, he can be found writing songs on his guitar, riding bikes around Colorado or scoping out opportunities to submerge in a body of water. 

Connect with Mellik: Website

Samantha Grant
Sustainability Coordinator, City of Golden
She/Her

Samantha Grant is the Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Golden, Colorado, where she manages both community-facing and internal initiatives. Her work includes overseeing waste diversion programs, supporting municipal electrification efforts, tracking progress toward citywide sustainability goals, administering a community rebate program, and coordinating public outreach and education.

With a background spanning local government, nonprofit, and state agency work, Samantha has contributed to a range of environmental and sustainability programs. Across these roles, she has facilitated stakeholder engagement, secured grant funding for projects, and helped implement on-the-ground solutions. 

Marissa Heffernan
Associate Editor, Resource Recycling
All pronouns (he/she/they)
Most used acronym: Extended Producer Responsibility or EPR and Deposit Refund System or DRS

Marissa Heffernan started working for Resource Recycling in January 2022 after spending several years as a reporter at a daily newspaper in Southwest Washington. After developing a special focus on recycling policy, they also started the monthly newsletter Policy Now.

Connect with Marissa: LinkedIn, Website

Rita Mary Hennigan
Co-Director, UpRoot Colorado
She/her

Rita directs UpRoot’s work along the Western Slope, where she has spent most of her time since 2016. She is passionate about helping to create a more just food system that contributes to the health of both people and the environment. Her deep appreciation for farmers and food stems in part from her experiences working on farms in both urban and rural areas. She has also worked as an AmeriCorps VISTA and in other capacities for nonprofit organizations aiming to increase equity in food access. Rita holds a B.A. in Environmental Studies from Wellesley College and a Sustainability Certificate from Babson, Olin, and Wellesley Colleges. Rita was a 2023 Rocky Mountain Farmers Union Fellow. In her free time, Rita enjoys hiking in the magnificent mountains around her, reading, spending time with as many dogs as she can, and delighting in cooking, eating, and sharing food.

Scott Hutchings
Director Government Affairs, WM
He/Him
Most Used Acronym: EPR or Extended Producer Responsibility

Scott is the Director of Government Affairs for WM in the Four Corners region, which encompasses Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and a portion of Texas. In this role, he is responsible for managing legislative and political activities, as well as overseeing contract lobbyists. He adopts a collaborative approach by engaging closely with state and local elected officials to address sustainability challenges and incorporating input from all stakeholders to resolve complex issues.

With over three decades of experience in public policy, Scott emphasizes the importance of including diverse perspectives in the formulation and execution of ordinances and legislation. He represents WM on various boards within the market area, such as the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation, the Arizona Trucking Association, the Colorado Counties Foundation, the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Denver Energy Efficiency Advisory Board. Previously, he served as chairman of both the Colorado Motor Carriers Association and the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Waste and Recycling Association.

Before joining WM, Scott gained extensive experience in political campaigns and governmental relations. Notably, he served as the Director of Advance for Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, where he oversaw gubernatorial trips and managed logistical aspects, including press coordination, issue briefings, community outreach, and security arrangements. His skills were particularly evident during the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver and as the Director of the 41st Gubernatorial Inaugural celebration.

Earlier in his career, Scott was a Denver City Council Aide to Council President Rosemary Rodriguez, where he managed legislative duties, drafted ordinances, mediated community issues, and handled press relations. He has been involved in more than 25 successful campaigns, including municipal and school bond measures, as well as significant projects like the expansion of the Denver Convention Center, the creation of the Denver Stadium District.

Connect with Hutch: LinkedIn

Kathleen Hynes
Outreach & Technical Assistance Specialist, Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Enterprise
She/Her
Most used acronym: C3 or Colorado Circular Communities and OTA or Outreach and Technical Assistance

Kathleen joined the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment in 2024 to support the development and execution of the Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Enterprise. Prior to joining C3 Kathleen spent ten years in strategy, business development, and consulting roles at Software-as-a-Service companies. During this time, her work focused on tailoring customer experiences for the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), Manufacturing, and Retail sectors. She first discovered the idea of circularity while building her last program, and was motivated to transition her career and align her professional skills with her personal values. 

With a background rooted in Systems and Design Thinking, Kathleen’s expertise is in combining analytical problem solving with collaborative, empathetic approaches. She excels in developing partnerships and engaging stakeholders with diverse perspectives to achieve common goals. As an Outreach & Technical Assistance Specialist with C3, she collaborates with communities and provides personalized technical assistance to support their circularity goals. Kathleen is dedicated to driving forward solutions that maximize impact through innovation and sustainable behavior change.

Connect with Kathleen: LinkedIn, Website

Meghan Ibach
Product & Zero Waste Specialist, Eco Products
She/Her
Most used acronym: Product & Zero Waste Specialist  or PZW

Meghan Ibach advocates for clean compost and the circular economy, supporting compost systems that include certified compostables to capture more organics from the landfill. She has worked in the sustainability space for 10+ years from growing food, teaching garden science education to running sustainability at a university. She brings enthusiasm to the compost industry and believes in building meaningful connections to support the greater good. In her free time, she loves to snowboard, hike, bike, garden, see live music and play with her sweet Boston Terrier, Bowzer. 

Connect with Meghan: Website, LinkedIn

Michelle Kelble
Waste Tire Enterprise Board Administrator
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

Amelia Kovacs
Environmental Sustainability Coordinator, Apex Waste Solutions
Recycle Colorado Policy Committee Recorder
She/Her

Amelia Kovacs is an Environmental Sustainability Coordinator with Apex Waste Solutions in Colorado. Before joining Apex, she spent four years at Walking Mountains, where she led recycling tours, in-school outreach, and managed more than 300+ zero waste events, helping divert over 210,000+ pounds from the landfill. She’s collaborated with Eagle County and local towns like Avon, Eagle, and Vail to support their waste diversion goals and worked with the Eagle Valley Climate Action Collaborative’s Materials Management Task Force to connect businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities with practical waste diversion strategies. Amelia also managed an EPA REO grant program at Walking Mountains to expand recycling access in priority communities and led county-wide recycling drop site outreach. 

When she’s not working, you can find her playing soccer, hiking, birding, creating art, or capturing moments through photography. 

Connect with Amelia: LinkedIn

Wolf Kray
Materials Management Unit Leader, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
He/Him

Wolf is the Materials Management Unit Leader at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Since 2008 Wolf has worked on projects for the State of Colorado including serving as a member of the Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling Advisory Board, leading the 2016 Integrated Solid Waste and Materials Management Plan, proposing 20 year waste diversion goals to the Colorado Solid & Hazardous Waste Commission, overseeing the implementation of Colorado's paint stewardship program and developing solid waste regulations pertaining to recycling facility operations and the waste electronic device landfill ban.

Prior to his current role at CDPHE, Wolf's work included analyzing statewide recycling data for Colorado, conducting inspections at recycling facilities and providing technical assistance on waste diversion operations. Wolf has a degree in Geography and Environmental Studies from the University of Hawai’i. Wolf also served as a member of the Sustainable Materials Management taskforce for the Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials and on the Colorado Pollution Prevention Advisory Board Assistance Committee.

Liz Kuhn
Outreach and Technical Assistance (OTA) Unit Work Lead, Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Enterprise
She/Her
Most used acronym: C3, Colorado Circular Communities or OTA, Outreach and Technical Assistance Unit

As the Outreach and Technical Assistance Unit Work Lead for CDPHE’s Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Enterprise program, Liz is dedicated to advancing circularity initiatives that prioritize equity and sustainability. Her work focuses on stakeholder engagement, grant application assistance, and project leadership. Through this work, she also has a strong focus on fostering sustainable, statewide behavior change and inclusive communications to ensure diverse perspectives are heard.

Connect with Liz: Website

Brian Loma
Green Latinos

Brian Loma is the Hazardous Materials and Waste Diversion Advocate for GreenLatinos. A dedicated advocate for environmental responsibility, Brian played a key role in bringing the Waste No More Denver ballot measure to voters in 2022. He owns Cut the Plastic EMS and is an active member of Recycle Colorado & Good Business Colorado, where he serves as a board member and on the hospitality team. He also serves in the Environmental Justice seat for the Colorado Extended Producer Responsibility Advisory Board. Brian transitioned from a career with Aflac in 2011 to focus on sustainability, earning a Bachelors of Science from Metropolitan State University in 2015. His expertise in Sustainable Infrastructure and Practices has taken him around the world, including participation in COP23 from the remote islands of Fiji.

Julie Mach
Owner of Elements Mountain Compost and Regional Sustainability Contractor for Chaffee County
She/Her
Most used acronym: Process for Reducing Pathogens or PFRP (refers to the time and temperature parameters required for commercial composting)

Julie is the owner of Elements Mountain Compost in Salida, CO and has dedicated her career(s) to implementing innovative solutions to resource conservation issues. She founded Elements in 2014 and has grown it from a one-woman-one-shovel operation to a Class 1 commercial composting facility and regional hauling operation. She was recently selected as the Regional Sustainability Contractor for Chaffee County and will be extending her reach in the waste diversion, energy reduction and transportation sectors. In a former life, Julie was the Conservation Director for the Colorado Mountain Club and helped shape policy, trails planning, and recreation programs across the state. Her heart still lives in the mountains and, when not turning compost piles, you can find her exploring deep in the backcountry on skis or by bike.

Connect with Julie: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram

Liz Mauro
Landfill Manager, South Canyon Landfill & Composting Facility, City of Glenwood Springs 
She/Her
Most used acronym: CDPHE or Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

Liz oversees composting, recycling, and landfill operations at the South Canyon Landfill in Glenwood Springs. Her work-related interests are circular economies, resource management, composting unusual feedstocks, and organics policy.

Rylee McCone
Sustainability Manager, Auraria Sustainable Campus Program
She/Her
Most used acronym: ASCP  or Auraria Sustainable Campus Program

Rylee is the Sustainability Manager at the Auraria Sustainable Campus Program. With a background mainly in waste diversion, Rylee focuses largely on recycling programs, food waste reduction initiatives, event waste management, and enhancing the composting program at the Auraria Campus. Implementing an internal, closed-loop composting program was just a vision for Rylee in 2022, and just three years later it has become a reality. While the program is not perfect, she is proud of how it has evolved, overcome many challenges, and provided many lessons. Moving forward, Rylee hopes that the composting program will be a significant contributor to the campus reaching its goal of a 35% diversion rate in the very near future and serve as a model for other campuses to implement similar programs.

Sarah Miller
Owner Operator of Revolve Reclaimed
She/Her/Hers
Most used acronym: RR or Revolve Reclaimed

Sarah grew up in a world of creativity and resourcefulness. Her mom, an architect and designer, brought bold ideas to life on job sites. Her dad, founder of Revolve Recycling, was known for dumpster diving to save anything with life left in it. Together, they sparked her love of reuse, design, and getting her hands dirty.

She earned a degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Colorado Boulder, where she led recycling initiatives and studied how ecosystems and impact studies shape our world.

After graduation, Sarah moved back in with her dad and stepped in to help at Revolve when an employee left. What started as a short-term fix turned into something more. She learned fast—how to manage large-scale reclaimed materials, run a small business, and find value in what others threw away.

Seven years later, Sarah has helped divert millions of pounds of material from landfills. She’s become a go-to resource for homeowners and small businesses looking for durable, affordable materials—everything sourced and sold locally. Her mission is equal parts environmental and practical: save good stuff, help good people, and do it with grit.

You’ll still find her five days a week, boots on the ground at Revolve Reclaimed—talking shop, making deals, and running the business alongside her brother, Cole.

Connect with Sarah: Website, Facebook, Instagram

Caroline Mitchell
Recycling and Circularity Lead, HDR Engineering Inc.

Caroline Mitchell is a recycling policy, education and systems expert and works as the Recycling and Circularity Lead at the consulting firm HDR. 

Prior to HDR, Caroline worked for the City of Fort Collins for 14 years, where she led Fort Collins’ conversion from open market to contracted residential hauling, developed and implemented multi-dwelling housing and commercial recycling programs and policy, was the resident waste data geek, and helped create a baseline of clear, accessible communication resources throughout. She was a founding member and co-vice chair of Colorado’s Producer Responsibility Advisory Board and has been deeply engaged in EPR in Colorado since the initial stakeholder process. Caroline also spent 8 years in the non-profit recycling sector in Colorado and Michigan. Prior to her work in recycling, Caroline studied sea turtle nesting in Tanzania and Texas.

Ellen Orleans, MFA
Sustainability Programs Manager
She/Her
Most used acronym: HTR or Hard to Recycle and CHaRM or Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials

This year, Ellen Orleans celebrates 20 years of sustainability work with the City of Boulder, first in the transportation arena, and since 2011, in zero waste and circular economy efforts. 

She splits her time between engaging with city green team leaders to bring reuse and recycling to municipal worksites, and partnering with regional organizations to reduce zero waste obstacles for residents receiving housing choice vouchers or living in manufactured home parks.

Partnering with Boulder County, Eco-Cycle, Community Cycles and Boulder Housing Partners (Boulder’s housing authority), Ellen initiated and continues to organize local sustainability programs. These include community recycling and collection days, CHaRM gift cards, container gardening events, electric fan reuse and distribution, and, most recently, a sewing skills workshop. 

Ellen prioritizes resident involvement by listening to requests and experiences. While still tracking materials diverted from the landfill, her team also prioritizes physical and emotional well-being by helping community members make their homes and yards safer, sunnier, more fire resistant, and more welcoming.

A writer, assemblage artist, and flatwater kayaker, Ellen is a founding member of the Wild Sage cohousing community in Boulder. She values hands-on creative problem-solving, expanding the definition of sustainability, and growing red peppers in flower pots on the deck of her carriage house.

Adam Peer
Senior Director, Plastics Sustainability at American Chemistry Council
He/Him
Most used acronym: American Chemistry Council or ACC

Adam Peer promotes and advocates for policies that increase the sustainability and circularity of plastic consumer products and packaging at the American Chemistry Council (ACC) as the leader of the Plastics Sustainability Team. Previously, he led legislative and regulatory efforts to advance the physician assistant profession. He also led the effort to enact professional employer organization legislation in 11 states. Originally from Wisconsin, he advised both the speaker of the state assembly and the chair of the insurance committee. Elected as the youngest member of the county board, he chaired the committee on public safety and justice. He has his master’s degree in sustainability from the Harvard University extension and a degree in accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He lives in Washington, D.C., and enjoys traveling and biking.

Connect with Adam: LinkedIn, Twitter

Anna Perks
Owner/Founder of Perks Deconstruction
She/Her
Most used acronym: C&D or Construction and Demolition/Deconstruction

Anna Perks is the founder and owner of Perks Deconstruction, a Colorado-based woman-owned business specializing in sustainable demolition and material reuse. With a background in circular economy and a deep commitment to climate-conscious construction practices, Anna has positioned Perks as a leader in deconstruction services across the Front Range. She is a board member of Recycle Colorado and an active participant on the Construction & Demolition (C&D) Council, where she advocates for policies and programs that promote waste diversion, material reuse, and industry innovation. Anna brings a hands-on, solutions-oriented approach to her work and is passionate about transforming the built environment through collaboration, education, and action.

Connect with Anna: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook

Jeff Pieper
Extension Area Specialist, Commercial Horticulture & Natural Resources at the CSU Extension

Dr. Jeff Pieper has been working in horticulture on Colorado's Western slope for over 10 years. After working as a horticulturist in Eagle County Jeff moved to the Grand Valley to work on peach production systems and complete his Ph. D. in Horticulture at Colorado State University. While working at CSU's Western Colorado Research Center in Grand Junction, he worked primarily with tree fruit and wine grapes. In his current role at CSU Extension Jeff provides applied horticultural guidance to commercial growers across the Tri-River area.

Joe Pitts
Program Director-Materials Reuse, Resource Central
He/Him

Joe joined Resource Central in 2023 as the director of the popular Materials Reuse program in Boulder, CO. With his background in corporate and institutional retail operations, Joe aims to double program impact and scale Materials Reuse statewide, helping to make the reuse of building materials the first choice and consumption of new materials second. 

Dave Reindel
Co-Founder & Chief Operations Officer of EverGreen ZeroWaste
He/Him
Most used acronym: EGZW or EverGreen ZeroWaste

Compost Dave is the co-founder and Chief Operations Officer for EverGreen ZeroWaste, a Public Benefit Corporation spearheading community compost collections, zero waste events and waste diversion education from Aspen to Glenwood Springs and Vail to Rifle. 

Compost Dave has worked in Colorado’s recycling industry since 1998, when he was hired for media relations and outreach with the University Recycling Service, while earning his undergrad degree at CU Boulder. After that, he transferred to Eco-Cycle where he helped start and operate the nation’s first drop-off center for non-traditional recyclables (CHaRM). 

In 2009, after eight years with Eco-Cycle, he as his wife Alyssa moved their young family to Carbondale, offering green event services to interested communities in the Roaring Fork Valley. After encouraging Pitkin County and the City of Aspen to tool-up their food waste compost programs, Dave began offering weekly curbside organics collection on Earth Day 2011, with just three homes on the route. Dave’s grassroots effort has matured to a staff of seven full-time employees at EverGreen ZeroWaste and 3,233 tons of organics collected and composted annually.

EverGreen ZeroWaste has won many local and state awards, including Recycle Colorado’s Recycler of the Year in 2019. Now at 15 years old, EverGreen ZeroWaste continually inspires the compost renaissance in Colorado and beyond.

Connect with Dave: Website, FaceBook, Instagram, YouTube

Molly Saylor
Owner and Principal at MKS Sustainability Consulting
She/Her

Molly Saylor, owner and principal of MKS Sustainability Consulting LLC, has over a decade of experience in sustainability with a focus on people-centered and data-informed climate action and waste reduction. Molly has worked at every step of sustainability intervention, including projecting the impact of specific tactics, developing calculators and impact estimation tools, leading strategic planning efforts, developing policies, and leading policy implementation. 

Connect with Molly: Website

Leslie Schrof
Circular & Low Carbon Business Development Manager at LyondellBasell (LYB)
She/Her
Most used acronym: Materials Recovery Facility or MRF

Leslie is a Business Development Manager for LyondellBasell's Circular and Low Carbon Solutions team. In this position, Leslie works to understand the US waste landscape and source plastic waste to meet LYB's mechanical and chemical recycling goals. She also represents LYB in industry coalitions to improve access to plastic waste through various recycling initiatives.

Rachel Setzke
Senior Policy and Research Associate, Eco-Cycle, Recycle Colorado Board Member, 
She/Her
Most used acronym: EPR or extended producer responsibility

Rachel Setzke (she/her) has been with Eco-Cycle since 2019. In her role as Senior Policy and Research Associate, she researches trends and best practices in recycling, compost, Zero Waste and circularity in order to support Eco-Cycle’s education and advocacy work. Her work has focused on providing policy and program solutions at the community and state levels as well as studying diversion access, trends and scalable solutions across Colorado. Rachel is the lead author of the annual State of Recycling and Composting in Colorado Report and an author of the Municipal Blueprint for Compost Expansion. Rachel has helped draft, advocate for and implement state laws including the Plastic Pollution Reduction Act, Producer Responsibility for Recycling and two compost bills. She is an active member of Recycle Colorado’s Board, Greater Colorado Council and Policy Committee, as well as multiple national groups working on Extended Producer Responsibility. Rachel has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 20 years. Rachel was born and raised in Colorado and, after college in Wisconsin, she returned to the Colorado where she currently resides with her husband, kids and cattle dog mutt.

Marianna Sparks
Principal | Appraiser
She, Her
Most used acronym: USPAP or Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice

Driven by a desire to facilitate positive change, Marianna is constantly expanding her knowledge of environmental initiatives such as Circularity, ESG, and Climate Justice. She leverages this knowledge to implement strategies for greater impact.

Marianna is an Army Veteran, holds an MBA in Global Management, and worked in Human Resource Management prior to launching Property Pro’s. She also earned a GreenPoint Rater Certification with Build it Green, is a qualified IRS appraiser for non-cash charitable contributions, and a Real Estate Appraiser.

Her role at Property Pro’s is multi-faceted with valuation, innovation, collaboration, research, participation in trade organizations, problem solving, content and report creation, education, and customer relations at the forefront.

Connect with Marianna: Website

Robbie Tepperberg
Compost Operations Manager- Auraria Sustainable Campus Program
He/Him
Most used acronym: ASCP  or Auraria Sustainable Campus Program

Robbie Tepperberg serves as the Compost Operations Manager for the Auraria Campus, where he leads compost diversion efforts across a 150-acre campus shared by three institutions: Metropolitan State University, the University of Colorado Denver, and the Community College of Denver. He joined the Auraria Campus in the fall of 2023 to help launch their on-site composting facility utilizing an in-vessel digester and custom-built electric tricycles for organics collection. He is deeply passionate about raising awareness of composting’s many benefits, educating others, and developing scalable models that institutions can replicate to establish their own on-site processing facilities.

Connect with Robbie: LinkedIn, Website, Facebook

Omar Terrie
Head of Public Affairs, Alterra

Omar Terrie is Alterra’s Head of Public Affairs where he manages the company’s government relations, community relations, and communication programs. Prior to Alterra, Omar was the Federal Public Affairs Manager for Neste’s Renewable Polymer and Chemicals business unit where he led Neste’s public and government affairs efforts on biobased polymers and chemicals throughout the Americas. Omar also worked as the Director of Market Advocacy at the American Chemistry Council’s Plastic Division where he organized member engagement on legislation and regulation relevant to polymer producers. Omar is an avid fan of science fiction and likes working for a company where he can turn science fiction into science fact.

Natalie Trecker
Motherlode Mercantile supervisor- Pitkin County Solid Waste Center
She/Her

Natalie Trecker is born and raised in Aspen, and embraced the ski culture. After many years of competitive xc ski racing, she returned to Aspen. Subsequent years in retail, landscaping and home reuse projects have led her to her dream job of working the diversion effort/ community reuse resource that is the Motherlode Mercantile, a.k.a "the dump store" at the Pitkin County Solid Waste Center in the Roaring Fork valley. She is excited to be part of the mission to reduce, reuse and recycle for our world. She spends her days out in the dirt at the Solid Waste Center helping the community to divert reusable items destined for the landfill and help create and support a reuse culture. 

Alex Truelove
Senior Policy Manager, Biodegradable Products Institute
He/Him
Most used acronym: BPI or Biodegradable Products Institute

Alex joined BPI in early 2022 to help develop and advocate for policies to increase organic waste diversion, reduce pollution, and help consumers navigate a dizzying product marketplace. He previously directed a national non-profit zero waste program and remains passionate about environmental stewardship, public policy, and working with others to incrementally solve messy problems.

Connect with Alex: LinkedIn

Christy M. Turner
Community Programs Manager, High Country Conservation Center
She/Her
Most used acronym: High Country Conservation Center or HC3

Christy joined High Country Conservation Center (HC3) in 2023. In her role as Community Programs Manager, she works on waste reduction, water conservation, sustainable food, and a bit of policy. One of her passions is collaborating with community volunteers to help increase recycling education and outreach in Summit County, CO. Christy currently assists with the implementation of Pay as You Throw in Breckenridge, Frisco, and now unincorporated Summit County. She also manages a grant program to help community members increase their waste diversion efforts. Christy is on Recycle Colorado’s Greater Colorado and Construction and Demolition (C&D) Councils. When not championing environmental stewardship, Christy enjoys spending time outside with her husband and dog, Willow.

Chandra Valenza
Community Outreach Manager, Boulder County Resource Conservation Division 
She/Her
Most used acronym: Boulder County Recycle Center or BCRC and Material Recovery Facility or MRF 

Chandra has been with the County for three years. Previously, she was an environmental education teacher for a K-12 charter school. Her teaching background is crucial in her daily work, helping the citizens of Boulder County divert their waste from the landfill. In her free time, Chandra enjoys reading, cooking, and puttering around her vegetable garden.

Connect with Chandra: Instagram, LinkedIn

Emily Wenger
Lead Specialist, Environmental Sustainability
She/Her

Emily Wenger is the Contracted Trash and Recycling Program Manager for the City of Fort Collins, where she oversees contracted residential waste collection services and works to align the City's program with broader sustainability goals. With six years of experience in solid waste, hazardous waste, and recycling, Emily is passionate about contributing to the development of systems that support a transition toward a more circular economy. She is particularly focused on creating programs that are not only effective, but also equitable and collaborative.

Rob Writz
Director of Operations, Circular Action Alliance

Rob Writz is the Director of Operations at Circular Action Alliance (CAA) Colorado, where he leads the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility initiatives for paper and packaging, driving innovation in sustainable materials management across the state. 

A pioneer in climate tech and the circular economy, Rob was a founding team member at AMP Robotics, where he played a key role in integrating artificial intelligence and robotics into recycling operations across North America and Europe. 

With over 25 years of experience spanning software, sustainable materials management, and emerging technologies, Rob has been at the forefront of developing scalable solutions for greenhouse gas reduction, smart cities, and circular economy systems. His expertise includes hardware and software innovation, strategic partnerships, and operations management. 

A published author and active nonprofit board member, Rob is dedicated to advancing recycling infrastructure, policy development, and sustainability-driven technology to create lasting environmental impact. 

Congrats to our 2025 Future Leader Scholarship Winners!

Vanessa Vedral, University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Hallie Childers, Colorado Mountain College

Kuiper Curtis, Grand Junction

Regan Evans, Colorado Mesa University

Hannah Huber, Colorado State University

Sarah Tarczali, University of Colorado Boulder

Tara Sullivan, CU Boulder (MENV)

Chiara Scharpf, Colorado State University

AJ Jelonnek, University of Colorado Boulder

Alexis Brunney, University of Colorado Boulder Environmental Center

Congrats to our 2025 Award Recipients!

Outstanding Business Recycling/Diversion Program
Helena Robinowitz & Mike Nathan, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area

‘Cara Russell’ Rising Star
Nikki Chernick, Vanguard Renewables

‘Cara Russell’ Rising Star
Emma Marino, Town of Erie 

Outstanding Government Diversion Program
Wolf Kray, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment

Outstanding Outreach
Brian Loma, Cut The Plastic E.M.S.

Outstanding Outreach
Jimena Baldino, City of Aspen

‘Mereth Meade’ Outstanding Volunteer Of the Year
Kyoko Okada

Composting Champion
Meghan Ibach Eco-Products

Lifetime Achievement & Recycler of the Year
Elizabeth Chapman, Recycle Colorado