Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
DE&I Mission Statement
NERC works to minimize waste, conserve natural resources, and advance a sustainable economy through facilitated collaboration and action. We are dedicated to representing our diverse world while fostering equitable access to effective sustainable materials management. We are committed to building a culture based on the values of equity, respect, accountability, and trust rooted in our organizational decision-making, programs and operations, and the communities we serve.
NERC currently hosts a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Work Group which brings together members committed to advancing inclusive leadership, hiring, and retention practices within the sustainable materials management industry. This group is open to NERC members interested in contributing their time and expertise to support more equitable and inclusive practices across the industry. NERC's DE&I work group is open to both State and Advisory Members. Learn more here.
DE&I Training Series
From December 2021 - March 2022, NERC and partners offered a national – virtual – four-part training series on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) for those working in recycling and solid waste industries. The Trainings were free and open to anyone attending.The Training series included presentations, discussions, and sharing of resources about:
- Making the Case for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Recognizing & Addressing Unconscious Bias
- Creating a DE&I Path
- Engaging with Diverse Communities
DE&I Training Partners/Planning Committee
- Dan Schoonmaker & Isabel Soberal, West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum
- Cherish Miller, Revolution
- Steve Changaris, National Waste & Recycling Association
- Stef Murray, Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.
- Nidhi Turakhia, Allied Alloys
- Renee Panetta, City of Troy & NYSAR3’s DEI Committee
- Willie Johnson, Willie Johnson Communications
