Florida Recycles Day 2026

Join us for a day of education, innovation, and recognition as we work together to build a more sustainable future for Florida.
About this Event

Hosted by the Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection

8:00 a.m. | Check-In & Networking Enjoy coffee, light breakfast refreshments, and opportunities to connect with fellow attendees.

8:45 a.m. | Welcome Donn Githens, Chair, Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation

8:50 a.m. | Presenting Sponsor Remarks Jenna Emerson, Cemex

9:00 a.m. | Smart Recycling Technology Explore how local governments are using innovative software and technology to increase recycling participation, improve collection efficiency, and reduce contamination. Learn about emerging tools, real-world applications, and pilot projects strengthening recycling programs across Florida.

Moderator: Liz DeWitt, Florida Beverage Association Speakers:

· Alita Kane, Grant Development Manager, The Recycling Partnership

· Nick Ciancio, Resilience Division Director, Department of Solid Waste Management, Miami-Dade County

9:45 a.m. | Recycling Away From Home Report Update Learn about findings from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Recycling Away From Home study examining how tourism and visitor activity affect Florida’s recycling

system. Discover challenges, opportunities, and strategies for improving recycling in public spaces, hospitality venues, destination areas, and Florida State Parks.

Moderator: Karen Moore, Florida Department of Environmental Protection Speaker: Hannah Sackles, Graduate Research Assistant, University of Florida Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering

10:30 a.m. | Networking Break

11:00 a.m. | Recycling in Sports Venues: Advancing Sustainability Through Partnerships Hear how partnerships are advancing recycling and waste reduction at sporting events and venues across the Southeast. Panelists will share successful programs, fan engagement strategies, and approaches to the unique sustainability challenges of large sports and entertainment venues.

Moderator: John Mitchell, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida Speakers:

· Laura Sivels, Associate, Advisory Services, WM

· Christian Bruey, PureCycle

Noon | Lunch Sponsored by Publix Super Markets

1:00 p.m. | Recycling Recognition & Champion Awards Celebrate recycling achievement across Florida. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection will recognize counties that achieved or exceeded the state’s 75% recycling goal.

The Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation will also present its 2026 Recycling Champion Awards, honoring outstanding leadership in recycling, waste reduction, and sustainability.

2:00 p.m. | Industry Innovations & Sustainability Initiatives Discover how Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation members are shaping the future of recycling and materials management. This session will highlight innovative programs, infrastructure improvements, packaging initiatives, and collaborative strategies that support a circular economy.

Moderator: To be announced Speakers:

· Dan Penn, Sustainability Projects Manager, Publix

· Patrick Krieger, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Policy, Plastics Industry Association

3:00 p.m. | Closing Remarks & Adjournment