Over the mountains and to Grand Junction we go for the 2025 Summit for Recycling! 

June 2nd - 4th | Grand Junction Convention Center

The Summit for Recycling annual conference is the biggest statewide networking and educational event focused on capturing the value in our waste stream and moving towards a circular economy in Colorado. We are super excited to bring the Summit to a location with so much happening around waste diversion. Grand Junction here we come!

2025 Summit for Recycling Agenda

June 2nd | June 3rd | June 4th

Monday, June 2nd

1:00 pm - 5:30 pm | Policy Retreat | Colorado 1 & 2

Join the Policy Committee as they review the legislative activity in 2025 and strategize about what legislative efforts to support in 2026. This will be an interactive meeting with workshop time amongst the sectors.

5:30 pm - 8:00 pm | Welcome Reception | Colorado 1 & 2

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

Tuesday, June 3rd

8:00 am - 9:00 am | Breakfast | Colorado 1 & 2

• C&D Council Meeting in Colorado 3

8:45 am - 9:45 am | Welcome and Keynote | Colorado 1 & 2

Building a Sustainable Circular Economy with the C3 Program
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.

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

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

Colorado 1 & 2

• Unlocking Circularity: C3’s STEPS Program for Public Entities
• 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.
• Economics of deconstruction and demolition

Creek

• 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.

Colorado 3

• 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!

11:30 pm - 12:30 pm | Lunch & Exhibitor Energy Booster | Colorado 1 & 2

Colorado 1 & 2

• Glass Recycling: Where we are and where we are going as a state
• Celene Peck-Adreano, Liz Mauro, and Jimena Baldino
• 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.
• Large Processor Innovations

Creek

• Innovations in Organics Circularity
• Vann Fussell from Compost Colorado, Nikki Chernick with Vanguard Renewables and Robert Tepperberg with Auraria Sustainable Campus
• 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, cut flowers and ornamental plants. Data gathered from this project was used to establish municipal compost use guidelines for growers in the western slope region.

Colorado 3

• Quality of Life Counts Too: How Diversion Goals Interlink with Community Safety, Health, and Happiness
• Ellen Orleans & 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.
• Deconstruction Reuse Warehouses

• Sarah Miller with Revolve Reclaimed LLC, Joe Pitts with Resource Central, Anna Perks owner of Perks Deconstruction and Natalie Trecker with the Motherlode Mercantile in Pitkin County.

• Waste Management 101
• 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.
  

• Compost Application
• 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.
• Blaine’s Farm: After attending the summit session on the partnership between the City of Grand Junction, the Mesa County Compost Facility, and local farms, join us for a firsthand look at one of the participating farms. See how this local farm has thrived through sustainable farming practices and learn how compost has played a key role in boosting yields and improving soil health. During the tour, you’ll meet the farmers, hear their experiences, and see how Mesa Magic compost has helped enhance their agricultural practices.
• 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
• 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!

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Wednesday, June 4th

8:30 am - 9:15 am | Breakfast | Colorado 1 & 2

9:15 - 10:15 a.m. | Welcome and Keynote | Colorado 1 & 2

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

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

Colorado 1 & 2

• Closing the Loop: Innovations for a Sustainable Future
• 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.

• 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.

Creek

• 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. 
• 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.

Colorado 3

• Spread Compost, Spread Awareness
• Jess Anderson with A1 Organics, Vann Fussell with Compost Colorado, Liz Mauro with the South Canyon Landfill, and moderator, 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.  

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Lunch | Colorado 1 & 2

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

Colorado 1 & 2

• 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.

Creek

• 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, 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. 

Colorado 3

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

• Waste Management 101
• 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.
• Compost Application
• 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.
• Blaine’s Farm: After attending the summit session on the partnership between the City of Grand Junction, the Mesa County Compost Facility, and local farms, join us for a firsthand look at one of the participating farms. See how this local farm has thrived through sustainable farming practices and learn how compost has played a key role in boosting yields and improving soil health. During the tour, you’ll meet the farmers, hear their experiences, and see how Mesa Magic compost has helped enhance their agricultural practices.
• 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
• 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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