Foundations of Sustainable Materials and Recycling
In Person | MassRecycle Conference
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Cancellation Policy: Refunds will be subject to a $25 processing fee up to one week before the course begins, at which point only credit for a future course of equal value will be provided.
Description
A comprehensive introduction to sustainable materials management and recycling practices, ideal for those new to the field. The course explores the history and evolution of recycling, dynamics of materials markets, and key industry terminology. Covering everything from the circular economy to the fundamentals of commodity markets, this course offers the essential building blocks for a deeper understanding of sustainable materials. Expert instructors will guide participants through individual and group exercises, case studies, and real-world examples, so you will leave equipped with the tools to achieve waste reduction goals. Classes are 2.5 hours each.
Agenda/ Syllabus
- 8:00 - 8:30 AM Networking and Breakfast (bagels and coffee provided)
- 8:30 - 12:00 Class and Interactive Breakout Groups
- Module 1: History of Recycling and Sustainable Materials
- Module 2: Recycling and Trash Relationship
- Module 3: Supply Chain Overview
- Module 4: Commodity Market Dynamics
- 12:00 -12:30 Lunch (sandwiches, sodas, waters, salads, chips, and cookies provided)
- 1:00 - 4:30 Class and Interactive Breakout Groups
- Module 5: Connecting SMM to Mega Trends
- Module 6: Best Practices for Recycling and Sustainable Materials Programs
- Module 7: Performance Metrics and Goals
- 4:30 - 5:00 Networking
Rates
(Member rates apply to both NERC and MassRecycle members for this course)
| Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate | $275 | $350 |
| Non-Profit, Government, Academia | $235 | $295 |
Course Instructor

Gretchen Carey
Gretchen Carey has worked in the environmental field for over 15 years as a volunteer, municipal recycling coordinator, and sustainability director. Gretchen provides training and education on recycling for municipalities and organizations while helping to build the organics infrastructure in New England. Gretchen is a LEED Green Associate, a Zero Waste TRUE Advisor, and co-founder of GreenLabs Recycling, the hyperlocal company for plastics recycling.
Contact Mariane Medeiros, Senior Project Manager, for questions at mariane@nerc.org.


