PURPOSE:

The Recycling Association of Minnesota is committed to promoting resource conservation through waste prevention, reuse, recycling, composting and purchasing practices using the most cost effective and environmentally sound methods available in Minnesota.

The RAM Board of Directors wants to recognize the environmental stewardship efforts of community groups, businesses, public entities, and individuals that benefit the communities in Minnesota.

AWARD ELIGIBILITY:

Individuals or recent programs contributing to the betterment of recycling or other resource conservation efforts in the state of Minnesota are eligible for RAM awards. A RAM member must make nominations using the award application. Below is the list of award categories and the criteria(s) to qualify for each category. Note a nominee does not need to be a RAM member.

AWARD CATEGORIES:

Green Project Award

This award recognizes a special green project in Minnesota that has demonstrated outstanding environmental results.

Criteria for award:

• 6 months worth of data history to prove the green project is working well
• Demonstrate innovation through reducing waste, carbon footprint, water usage or other environmental issue important to Minnesota
• Goals to expand the program in the near future
• Preference given to a RAM member

Public Service Award

This award recognizes an elected official who has demonstrated outstanding service for the betterment of recycling and the environment.

Criteria for award:

• History of public service for the betterment of recycling and the environment
• Grasp of operational details of the recycling industry
• Consistent support for recycling initiatives, proposals or programs
• Seeks input on recycling issues from diverse groups or individuals from an inclusive approach to policy making

Recycler Of The Year

An individual, group, business, public entity or organization that has demonstrated outstanding service as a recycling service provider or advocate.

Criteria for award

Must meet one or more of the following:

• Display initiative and commitment to recycling (such as expanding types of materials collected)
• Demonstrate innovation and leadership in recycling (such as having an above average recycling rate)
• Active in recycling market development or environmentally preferable purchasing (including buying recycled)
• Support of groups with environmental focus through contributions or in-kind donations
• Preference given to RAM member

Denise Kolar Award

Honoring a member of RAM who has devoted a tremendous amount of energy, goodwill and effort to benefit RAM.

Criteria for award:

• Donated an exceptional number of hours to RAM projects
• Provided a positive example of leadership
• Introduced new members or sponsors to RAM

Denise Kolar, Western Lake Superior Sanitary District, Solid Waste Program Coordinator, was one of RAM’s founders and devoted many years as a board member and volunteer. Denise died suddenly in 1992 after giving birth to her daughter. She will always be missed.