Make a Nomination for the 2026 RAM Awards Today!
The Board of Directors & staff of RAM want to recognize the environmental stewardship efforts of community groups, businesses, public entities, and individuals that benefit the communities in Minnesota. We are excited to announce that the RAM awards program for 2026 is being reinvigorated! Awards will be given to recipients at the RAM Annual Meeting & Dinner at the Annual RAM/SWANA Conference. See below for information about eligibility and the categories of awards.
Award Eligibility
Individuals or recent programs that have contributed to the improvement 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. Please note that a nominee does not need to be a RAM member.
Award Categories
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 & initiatives
- Provided a positive example of leadership
- Introduced new members or sponsors to RAM
- Represented RAM in a positive light to stakeholders
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
Young Professional of the Year
This award celebrates an emerging leader who has passion and dedication. It honors a young professional making meaningful contributions that drive progress, spark new ideas, and strengthen the recycling industry.
Criteria for award:
- Must be 35 years old or younger as of December 31, 2025
- Ideally, applicants should be newer to the industry (10 years of experience or less)
- Has led or contributed to a project or initiative that positively impacted the recycling industry
- Actively engaged in and contributing to the recycling community
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
- Active in regional recycling market development or environmentally preferable purchasing (such as using recycled content in manufacturing processes)
- Support of groups with an environmental focus through contributions or in-kind donations
- Preference given to RAM members