In case you missed it: Thoughtful, newsworthy comments from industry professionals, consumers, and legislators.
“The question is what’s the price, not if there’s a deal."
— Ratto Group spokesman Eric Koenigshofer regarding the sale of the company's operations to Recology, as reported by The Press Democrat. The deal is being made due to growing regulatory and financial issues for Ratto Group and a decline in owner Jim Ratto's health.
"Trash is an epidemic, and if this generation doesn’t do something then who will?"
— Rubicon Global CEO Nate Morris in an interview with Waste Dive regarding the company's current position in the market as well as its growth strategy. Morris noted that his company was built "for the millennial generation" and focuses more on technology and data than its competitors.
“Emoji is a tragic illustration of the consequences that simple human actions have on the world around us."
— Ray Ball, a senior veterinarian for the Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, regarding a manatee (Emoji) that died due to plastic debris in its stomach, as reported by The Washington Post. Marine debris is a growing issue in the industry, and one study showed that some animals confuse the plastic for food because of the way it smells.
"You just have to flat out ignore things to not be educated here."
— Waste Management External Communications Manager Janette Micelli in an interview with Waste Dive regarding the 2017 Waste Management Phoenix Open (WMPO). Micelli noted that the WMPO utilizes every tactic in the book — signage, advertising, recycling "ambassadors," zero waste stations — to ensure that attendees are educated about waste diversion efforts during the event.
"I am familiar with the concept of environmental justice. As I testified, the Administrator plays an important role regarding environmental justice. I agree that it is important that all Americans be treated equally under the law, including the environmental laws."
— President Trump's nominee for EPA chief, Scott Pruitt, in a 242-page report regarding questions that senators had about Pruitt's stance on environmental issues. Senate Republicans confirmed the nominee to head the EPA this week despite a Democratic boycott during the confirmation vote, as reported by The New York Times.
"We know that people are interested in recycling, but just sending them educational materials or reminding them to do the right thing isn’t enough."
— Wesley Schultz, scientific advisor for Zerocycle, in a press statement regarding the company's Resident Engagement Platform organics diversion pilot program in Fremont, CA. Zerocycle touted that during the pilot, participants saw a 13% reduction in overall trash bin weight.