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The Center for Sustainable Materials Management hosts a symposium Sept. 20 in ESF's Gateway Center.

The New York State Center for Sustainable Materials Management Hosts Inaugural Symposium: Elevating Solutions Together

The Center for Sustainable Materials Management (CSMM) is hosting an inaugural symposium on Sept. 20 to bring together experts, thought leaders, and innovators to explore the latest advancements in sustainable materials management. Elevating Solutions Together — which will examine the industry research solutions, policies, and funding to help achieve a circular economy — will be held 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Gateway Center at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF). This free event is targeted to industry professionals, academics, government, and community leaders who have an interest in environmental protection and the more sustainable use of natural resources.

The Symposium features a robust schedule that includes presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to foster collaborative exchange and ignite new ideas. Participants will gain insights into cutting-edge research, emerging trends, and practical applications in sustainable materials management.

One of the Symposium’s highlights includes the premiere of a year-long film project. The mini-documentary will showcase the impressive strides made by CSMM and its esteemed university partners, which include ESF, Syracuse University, Alfred State, Stony Brook University, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. A panel discussion will follow.

Access the full schedule online here.

“Partners like the Center for Sustainable Materials Management are helping to advance innovations in waste management and a more circular economy,” said New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Basil Seggos. “We need an all-hands-on-deck approach to tackling waste management challenges and partners like the Center and other stakeholders are bolstering New York State’s ongoing efforts to reduce waste and introduce new solutions in sustainable materials management.”

“The symposium will provide a collaborative platform for industry leaders to share their expertise and ideas to help drive innovation and influence the trajectory of sustainable materials management," said Kate Walker, Executive Director, CSMM. “This event promises to be transformative, bringing together diverse perspectives and insights to pave the way for a more sustainable future."

“We're excited to gather and share our collective story of dedicated efforts to reduce consumption, increase collaborations, and foster deeper engagement with communities. Our goal is to inspire the creation of more effective sustainable materials management solutions that benefit everyone,” says Melissa Young, Director of the Center for Sustainable Community Solutions at Syracuse University.

Members of the press are invited to cover the Symposium. Interested journalists can register by visiting https://TheCSMMSymposium.rsvpify.com.

The Center for Sustainable Materials Management

The Center for Sustainable Materials Management was established at ESF in the spring of 2020 through a NYS Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) grant administered by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The Center places ESF, DEC, and their partners in a leadership role regarding materials (waste) reduction, reuse, and recycling in New York and the US. The Center’s mission is to inspire, lead, and connect a diverse group of people and

organizations that will collectively challenge the concept of “waste,” through redefining and reimagining how we procure, produce, consume, manage, and market materials.

Founded in 1911, ESF is one of the nation's premier colleges focused exclusively on the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable future. The College is a recognized leader in the practice of sustainability and is consistently ranked as one of the “greenest” colleges in the nation.