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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2022-08-15

Contact: Jennifer Semrau, DNR Waste Reduction and Diversion Coordinator
Jennifer.Semrau@wisconsin.gov or 608-381-0960

2022 Recycling Excellence Awards Nominations Now Open

McKinley Elementary School in Wauwatosa was recognized in 2017 for its successful new food composting program that reduced the amount of food waste entering landfills, as well as its plastic bag recycling initiative. McKinley Elementary School in Wauwatosa was recognized in 2017 for its successful new food composting program that reduced the amount of food waste entering landfills, as well as its plastic bag recycling initiative. Photo credit: McKinley Elementary School

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is currently accepting nominations for the 2022 Recycling Excellence Awards now through Sept. 16.

Communities, organizations, schools and businesses are eligible and encouraged to apply for recognition of outstanding recycling or waste minimization initiatives. The DNR offers the Recycling Excellence Awards to recognize efforts and share innovative ideas with a broad audience to improve waste management practices.

One of the goals identified in A Blueprint for DNR Climate Action 2021-2025 is to reduce per-capita food waste disposed of in Wisconsin landfills by half by 2030 (from 2020 levels). Please note that food waste recovery or diversion programs are eligible for Recycling Excellence Awards.

Awards are offered in four categories: overall program; projects and initiatives; innovation; and special events. Entities of any size may nominate themselves or submit an application on behalf of another program. Applicants are encouraged to submit supporting materials such as outreach samples, data/graphs and high-resolution photos.

Find more information about the categories, past awards and a nomination form on the Wisconsin Recycling Excellence Awards webpage.