Business Details
48 Years
experience
Your Partner in Sustainable Recycling Solutions
Founded in 1978, we are a nonprofit trade organization dedicated to advancing recycling and zero waste initiatives across Northern California. With over 500 members representing diverse sectors of the recycling community, we provide advocacy, education, and networking opportunities to promote sustainable resource management. Our programs include policy development, community engagement, and training workshops designed to empower individuals and organizations in waste reduction and environmental stewardship. Through quarterly meetings, annual conferences, and hands-on events like coastal clean-ups, we foster collaboration among recyclers, government agencies, and environmental advocates.Our commitment to innovation is demonstrated through initiatives like the Zero Waste Schools Program, which has achieved remarkable diversion rates in partnership with local school districts. We maintain a comprehensive membership directory, job board, and services database to connect professionals and businesses within the recycling industry. Our advocacy efforts have influenced state and federal policies, ensuring recyclers' voices are heard in legislative and regulatory discussions. With decades of experience and a focus on practical solutions, we continue to lead efforts in promoting recycling as a vital component of environmental and economic sustainability.
Services
Recycling Advocacy
Zero Waste Training
Community Clean-Ups
Policy Development
Membership Networking
Educational Programs
Conference Organization
Job Placement Services
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of experience in recycling advocacy and education
- 500+ diverse members representing the entire recycling industry
- Award-winning Zero Waste Schools Program implementation
- Comprehensive training workshops for industry professionals
- Active policy advocacy at local, state, and national levels
Services
Recycling Advocacy
We actively represent recyclers' interests in legislative and regulatory discussions at local, state, and national levels. Our advocacy efforts focus on developing supportive policies for waste reduction and sustainable resource management. Through direct engagement with policymakers and industry stakeholders, we ensure recycling remains a priority in environmental legislation.
Zero Waste Training
Our comprehensive training programs educate professionals on best practices in waste management and recycling operations. The 'Introduction to Recycling' workshop provides foundational knowledge for newcomers to the field. We also offer specialized training sessions tailored to specific sectors within the recycling industry.
Community Clean-Ups
We organize annual coastal clean-up events and member appreciation picnics that combine environmental stewardship with community engagement. These events provide networking opportunities while promoting hands-on participation in waste reduction efforts. Our zero-waste events demonstrate practical sustainability practices in action.
Membership Networking
We connect over 500 members through quarterly meetings, tours, and a comprehensive online directory. Our members include recyclers, government officials, consultants, and environmental advocates who share knowledge and resources. The platform facilitates collaboration across all sectors of the recycling industry.
Educational Programs
We develop and support educational initiatives like the award-winning Zero Waste Schools Program, which has achieved 90%+ waste diversion rates in participating schools. Our programs include field trips, classroom presentations, and recognition systems to engage students in sustainable practices.
People
Bonnie Betts
Administrative and Social Media Coordinator
Environmental content creator with expertise in zero waste advocacy and community engagement. Leads social media initiatives and youth programs to promote sustainable practices through digital platforms and educational campaigns.
Chris Sparnicht
IT Consultant
Certified Zero Waste Associate providing technical and website support to environmental nonprofits. Combines expertise in biology and horticulture with technology to develop digital solutions for recycling organizations and citizen-science initiatives.
Portia Sinnott
Executive Director
Oversees strategic operations and program implementation for the association. Brings extensive experience in nonprofit management and environmental policy to lead the organization's mission of promoting sustainable resource management practices.
Juliana Gerber
Financial Coordinator
Manages financial operations and budget oversight for the association. Provides expertise in nonprofit financial management to ensure fiscal sustainability while supporting the organization's environmental mission and programs.
Freddy Coronado
President
Serves as board president while co-chairing the Recycling Update Program Committee. Brings leadership experience in recycling program development and community engagement initiatives that advance the association's zero waste goals.
Questions
What is NCRA's primary mission?
We promote recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable resource management through advocacy, education, and community engagement programs across Northern California.
How can I join NCRA?
Visit our website to complete membership registration. Individual memberships start at $60/year and include access to events, training programs, and networking opportunities.
What educational programs do you offer?
We provide the 'Introduction to Recycling' workshop and support the Zero Waste Schools Program, which has achieved 90%+ waste diversion rates in participating schools.
Do you organize community events?
Yes, we host annual coastal clean-ups, quarterly meetings with facility tours, and the Recycling Update conference featuring 25 industry experts in one-day sessions.
How does NCRA support policy development?
We advocate for recycling-friendly legislation at local, state, and national levels, providing expert testimony and policy recommendations to influence environmental regulations.
Videos
