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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2024-07-25

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

DNR Now Accepting Nominations For Recycling Excellence Awards

A group of culinary students stand in a commercial kitchen holding up buckets of compost. Nominations are now open for the DNR's Recycling Excellence Award. The Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program was recognized in 2022 for its food diversion and composting. Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Recycling Excellence Awards. The nomination period is open until Sept. 16.

The Recycling Excellence Award showcases and celebrates outstanding recycling efforts, innovation and performance for communities, nonprofits, schools and businesses throughout Wisconsin. Food waste recovery or diversion programs are also eligible.

“Organizations that put exceptional effort into reducing waste or diverting materials from our landfills deserve recognition,” said Jennifer Semrau, DNR waste reduction and diversion coordinator. "Please consider submitting a nomination if you know of an organization going above and beyond with its waste reduction efforts."

Awards are offered in four categories: overall program, projects and initiatives, innovation and special events. Entities can self-nominate or submit an application on behalf of another program. The nomination should include supporting materials such as outreach samples, data or graphs and high-resolution photos.

Past winners have provided new collection and clean-up services for their communities, implemented waste reduction practices within their organization and diverted impressive amounts of compostable and recyclable materials.  

The award winners will be featured on the DNR’s website and social media accounts. The nomination form, information about the categories and profiles of past award winners can be found on the Wisconsin Recycling Excellence Awards webpage.