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May 2007
WasteCap celebrates Earth Week with green contractors
May 2007
WasteCap springs into construction season by observing Earth Week at five projects showcasing outstanding efforts in
construction waste recycling. Workers at Boldt Construction’s Interdisciplinary Research Complex project in Madison
celebrated recycling over 10 million pounds of waste while JH Findorff & Son workers announced a $20,000 savings for
the nearby UW Health American Family Children’s Hospital project by recycling. Wisconsin Public Service hosted a
WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour, offering an inside look at the Weston 4 Power Plant in Rothschild, currently achieving
an 80% recycling rate. The workers also enjoyed an Earth Day Appreciation Lunch and learned how their recycling efforts
are making a significantly positive impact on the local environment. To read more, click here.
Weston 4 construction project recycling most of its waste
When Phil Hayes started working as the project manager on the new Weston 4 Power Plant, he never imagined they would be able to recycle even half their construction debris. Two and a half years later, the project is recycling 80 percent of its waste and has diverted more than 10 million pounds of materials from landfills.
To read the full article, visit www.wausauinfo.com.
April 2007
WasteCap celebrates Earth Week with green contractors
April 2007
WasteCap springs into construction season by observing Earth Week at five projects showcasing outstanding efforts in
construction waste recycling. Workers at Boldt Construction’s Interdisciplinary Research Complex project in Madison
celebrated recycling over 10 million pounds of waste while JH Findorff & Son workers announced a $20,000 savings for
the nearby UW Health American Family Children’s Hospital project by recycling. Wisconsin Public Service hosted a
WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour, offering an inside look at the Weston 4 Power Plant in Rothschild, currently achieving
an 80% recycling rate. The workers also enjoyed an Earth Day Appreciation Lunch and learned how their recycling efforts
are making a significantly positive impact on the local environment. To read more, click here.
REGISTRATION IS OPEN Become an Accredited Professional in Construction & Demolition Waste Management and Recycling
When: May 17, 2007
Where: Forest Products Lab (One Gifford Pinchot Dr. Madison, WI 53726)
Reduction, reuse and recycling is allowing contractors and owners
to use project funds for building instead of waste disposal. This training will give
you the skills you need to develop, manage, monitor, document and promote a successful
recycling program for construction and demolition debris. It also provides training to
obtain LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) points for MR 2.1 and 2.2.
Successful completion of the training will award registrants with WasteCap Accredited
Professional status. Registration is required and space is limited. For more information and to register, visit
www.wastecapwi.org/training. For more information about the Building Materials Reuse
Association Conference (Decon '07) visit
www.buildingreuse.org.
Weston 4 construction project recycling most of its waste
When Phil Hayes started working as the project manager on the new Weston 4 Power Plant, he never imagined they would be able to recycle even half their construction debris. Two and a half years later, the project is recycling 80 percent of its waste and has diverted more than 10 million pounds of materials from landfills.
To read the full article, visit www.wausauinfo.com.
March 2007
2007 TALK & TOUR SERIES Wisconsin Public Service Weston 4 Power Plant
When: April 18, 2007 from 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Where: Weston 4 Power Plant in Rothschild, WI. (Guests to meet at Tony Roma's at 10207 Co Rd XX in Mosinee)
Do you think recycling on tight sites is a challenge? Try recycling across 345 acres with more than 900 workers. Learn how
to coordinate a successful large construction debris recycling program and get an inside view of Wisconsin's largest
construction site; Wisconsin Public Service's Weston 4 Power Plant in Rothschild, WI. Participate in the tour and hear
the presentations at this Earth Week event taking place April 18 from 2:30 - 5:30 p.m. Recycling professionals,
contractors, haulers and large developers are especially encouraged to attend. Space is limited. Register by April 12.
To register, visit the EVENTS PAGE.
REGISTRATION IS OPEN Become an Accredited Professional in Construction & Demolition Waste Management and Recycling
When: May 17, 2007
Where: Madison (exact location to be announced) the day after the BMRA Decon '07 Conference
Reduction, reuse and recycling is allowing contractors and owners
to use project funds for building instead of waste disposal. This training will give
you the skills you need to develop, manage, monitor, document and promote a successful
recycling program for construction and demolition debris. It also provides training to
obtain LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) points for MR 2.1 and 2.2.
Successful completion of the training will award registrants with WasteCap Accredited
Professional status. Registration is required and space is limited. For more information and to register, visit
www.wastecapwi.org/training.
For more information about the Building Materials Reuse
Association Conference (Decon '07) visit
www.buildingreuse.org.
January 2007
MEMBERS ONLY REGISTRATION IS OPEN Become an Accredited Professional in Construction & Demolition Waste Management and Recycling
When: May 17, 2007
Where: Madison (exact location to be announced) the day after the BMRA Decon '07 Conference
Reduction, reuse and recycling is allowing contractors and owners
to use project funds for building instead of waste disposal. This training will give
you the skills you need to develop, manage, monitor, document and promote a successful
recycling program for construction and demolition debris. It also provides training to
obtain LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) points for MR 2.1 and 2.2.
Successful completion of the training will award registrants with WasteCap Accredited
Professional status. Members Only early registration begins Jan. 15. Open registration
begins Jan. 29. Registration is required and space is limited. For more information and to register, visit
www.wastecapwi.org/training.
For more information about the Building Materials Reuse
Association Conference (Decon '07) visit
www.buildingreuse.org.
Attention WasteCap Accredited Professionals: Register for the Training Reunion and Feedback Loop session
When: February 22 in Milwaukee and March 1 in Madison from 4 - 6 p.m.
Where: Marine Terminal (Milwaukee) and the Overture Center for the Arts (Madison)
All WasteCap Accredited Professionals (WC AP) are required to attend a feedback loop in order to maintain accreditation. These
feedback loops are an excellent way to share your experiences with implementing the training in your work. Sessions are free and
provide valuable networking opportunities. The Milwaukee session will address how the training program was applied to the
Marine Terminal project from the experience of WasteCap Accredited Professional Dan Katt from JH Findorff & Son. The Madison
session (in March) will address the creation of the training program based on the C&D recycling efforts at Overture Center for
the Arts. To register for a session, click here.
June 2006
POSTPONED TALK & TOUR SERIES - The Future of Documenting Recycling Efforts
NEW DATE Thursday, July 27, 2006 from 3 - 5 p.m. at St. Anthony's Parish in Menomonee Falls, WI
On seven Jansen Group projects, recycling results are being tracked through an online documentation program being developed through a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The program, now in its pilot stages, will soon be made available to contractors statewide for use on construction, demolition and remodeling projects. At this Talk & Tour, you will have the chance to meet recycling leaders from The Jansen Group, Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center (SHWEC), and WasteCap Wisconsin, learn about the new online program and how it applies to the demolition, construction and remodeling at St. Anthony’s Parish in Menomonee Falls. 2-for-1 registration through July 13. For more information and to register, click here.
WasteCap seeks Communications Intern - Application date extended
WasteCap seeks an individual with excellent research, writing and computer skills to assist in marketing services, public relations, website maintenance and updates, membership expansion, and special events. The Communications Intern works under the direction of Outreach Specialist. To read the full job description and details for applying, click here.
June Member Profile - Packerland, A Smithfield Beef Group Company
Packerland-Green Bay received the 2005 Governor's Award for Excellence in Environmental Performance for converting methane gas from an onsite anaerobic-based wastewater treatment system to fuel the plant's lead boiler. This significantly reduced the need to fuel the boiler with natural gas. To read June's member profile click here or visit them directly at www.packerland.com.
May 2006
MGE takes responsibility for the environment
Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) takes its responsibility seriously to protect the environment while providing reliable service to 137,000 natural gas and 136,000 electric customers in south-central and western Wisconsin. The regulated utility is headquartered in Madison, the state capital. MGE partnered with WasteCap Wisconsin and met its goal to recycle 75% of construction waste when the company built a new 150-megawatt natural gas power plant on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. The West Campus Cogeneration Facility began commercial operation in 2005. To read more about May's highlighted member, click here or visit their website directly at http://www.mge.com/environment.
State's first public-trained professionals in construction and demolition waste recycling accredited
Thirty-five professionals completed WasteCap Wisconsin's public training program on Tuesday in Oconomowoc making them among the state's first trained professionals in construction and demolition waste management and recycling. "It was good to hear two passionate people preaching about recycling in general and construction and demolition waste in particular," said Ken Barnes of Waste Management and Research Center of Champaign, IL who attended the training program. To read the full article, click here.
WasteCap seeks Communications Intern - Applications due May 31
WasteCap seeks an individual with excellent research, writing and computer skills to assist in marketing services, public relations, website maintenance and updates, membership expansion, and special events. The Communications Intern works under the direction of Outreach Specialist. To read the full job description and details for applying, click here.
April 2006
Construction and Demolition Waste Management and Recycling Training is full
The state's first-ever public training in construction and demolition waste management and recycling will be taught by WasteCap Wisconsin on May 2, 2006 at Waukesha State Bank in Oconomowoc, WI. Successful completion of the training will award registrants accreditation as a professional construction and demolition recycler. Open registration began March 20. The training program is full and registration is closed. For more information about the training program and to be added to the waiting list, click here.
Job Opportunity at Recycling Connections Corp. in Plover
Recycling Connections Corp. is hiring for the position of Program and Administrative Manager. The position will manage programming and services and provide staff support for the Executive Director. This position is also responsible for maintaining and completing Recycling Connections' and its contractor's financial records, reports and accounts payable and receivable as well as payroll. For more information, visit http://www.recyclingconnections.org/staffandboard.htm
March 2006
Construction and Demolition Waste Management and Recycling Training is full
The state's first-ever public training in construction and demolition waste management and recycling will be taught by WasteCap Wisconsin on May 2, 2006 at Waukesha State Bank in Oconomowoc, WI. Successful completion of the training will award registrants accreditation as a professional construction and demolition recycler. Open registration began March 20. The training program is full and registration is closed. For more information about the training program and to be added to the waiting list, click here.
$2.7 Million Available for Community Action for a Renewed Environment Grant Program
EPA has issued a new request for proposals for the Community Action for a Renewed Environment program. A range of community groups may apply for funding, including county and
local governments, tribes, non-profit organizations and universities. EPA will award about $2.7 million in cooperative agreements in two levels through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program. Deadline is April 10. For more information, visit http://www.epa.gov/care.
Neighboring states are trashing Wisconsin
Source: Wisconsin League of Conservation
A map released today in anticipation of a hearing on a bill to increase the fees for garbage dumped in Wisconsin illustrated that garbage from neighboring states has found its way into landfills across the state. The data further indicates that neighboring states will continue to take advantage of Wisconsin's low tipping fees to ship waste into Wisconsin, which will put groundwater and communities at risk. Read the full article at www.wastecapwi.org/wileaguetipping
February 2006
City of Milwaukee seeks Environmental Sustainability Director
The Director manages all activities of the Office of Environmental Sustainability, reports to the Mayor of Milwaukee and has cabinet level stature. This position advises the Mayor, Common Council and City departments on strategies and policy direction to improve Milwaukee's environmental performance related to stormwater management, energy efficiency, air and water quality, solid waste, recycling and green business development. For more information, visit the City of Milwaukee website.
The Jansen Group commits to recycling for EPA grant program
The Jansen Group, one of southeastern Wisconsin's largest construction firms, has agreed to take an active role in a grant program awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources by the Environmental Protection Agency. The construction firm will submit online documentation of recycling results from local projects, including St. Anthony's Parish in Menomonee Falls, by using the skills they learned by successfully completing WasteCap Wisconsin's Construction & Demolition Waste Management and Recycling Training Program. Nine of the firm's employees completed the training in October 2005 and are now among the first WasteCap accredited recycling professionals. Click here to read the full article.
Job-Site Recycling: A Cost-Effective Choice to Promote Community Stewardship
Eco-Structure Magazine
Breaking ground on a new facility is an occasion to celebrate growth. It commemorates a powerful choice about the facility's future and its stewardship to the community it serves. This service to the community can begin long before the facility's doors open by implementing a construction and demolition (C&D) waste recycling program. By implementing a C&D waste-recycling program, possibly hundreds of tons of materials could be diverted into reuse, extending their life cycle, saving natural resources, cutting production costs and reducing pressure on landfill space. Click here to read the full article.
January 2006
Save $100 on the WasteCap training seminar at the Better Buildings: Better Business Conference
Better Buildings: Better Business (B4) Conference attendees can save $100 when they sign up for WasteCap Wisconsin's Construction Debris Reuse and Recycling Training at the conference on February 1. The training seminar will teach the skills needed to develop, manage, monitor, track and promote a successful recycling program for residential construction debris. Participants will receive Accreditation in Construction Waste Management and a construction waste management toolkit to use on projects. If you are registered for the conference, please email Shannon Delaney at sdelaney@wastecapwi.org for a downloadable coupon and a registration form for the seminar. To register for the conference, visit www.ecw.org/betterbuildings.
Dates set for WasteCap's Construction Waste Management Public Training Sessions
WasteCap Wisconsin will hold public training sessions for accreditation in Construction Waste Management on Feb. 22 in Waukesha, WI and March 1 in Madison, WI. This training will give you the skills you need to develop, manage, monitor, document and promote a successful recycling program for construction and demolition debris. Public training sessions are available to individual haulers, architects, contractors, project managers and other members of the construction, demolition and waste industries as well as organizations who register less than six employees. For more information or to register for a public training session, visit http://www.wastecapwi.org/opentraining.htm
December 2005
WasteCap to offer Construction Waste Management Training Program at conference
Do you want to save money and natural resources during home construction? Learn how to set up, manage, troubleshoot and document a successful recycling program for residential construction debris at WasteCap Wisconsin's innovative, full-day training on Feb. 1, 2006. The training program is a featured special event and a first for the Better Buildings, Better Business Conference in Wisconsin Dells. Participants will receive WasteCap Wisconsin Accreditation in Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling and a practical Construction and Demolition Waste Management Toolkit to use on projects. Space is limited so register early. The 4th Annual Better Buildings, Better Business Conference is at Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells, WI. The training is sponsored in part by Marshall Towne Millwork. Early bird registration ends Dec. 16. Register for the conference and the training at http://www.ecw.org/betterbuildings
Milwaukee's New Horizons Un-Limited puts retired computers to good use
New Horizons, a Milwaukee-based non-profit organization, has been connecting disabled individuals and their families with informational and technological tools since 1994. As an environmentally friendly alternative to recycling, New Horizons reclaims parts of retired computers from business, refurbishes them and redistributes them throughout southeastern Wisconsin's disabled community. The program not only extends the lives of otherwise obsolete computers, but also ensures that malfunctioning equipment is properly recycled. Find out more and donate at http://www.new-horizons.org.
November 2005
One easy step to celebrate America Recycles Day
America Recycles Day is next Tuesday and one easy step your company can take to demonstrate its commitment to the environment is to become a member of WasteCap Wisconsin. WasteCap works all year long to do what America Recycles Day celebrates; recycling, reducing and reusing. Annual memberships are available with benefits catering to Wisconsin businesses. Check out our top five tips for celebrating America Recycles Day
Introduced bill increases recycling tipping fee to $10 per ton
Representative Spencer Black introduced a bill on October 31 to increase the state tipping fee from $3 per ton to $10 per ton. To view a copy of the bill, click here.
Bielinski Homes and Prairie Tree Landscaping save more than trees
Over 40 engineers, contractors and construction professionals gathered on Oct. 13 at Heritage Hills subdivision in Waukesha to learn about innovative recycling efforts by Bielinski Homes, southeastern Wisconsin's largest home builder, and Prairie Tree Landscaping of Elkhorn. To read the full article and view pictures from the event, click here.
October 2005
Bielinski Homes and Prairie Tree Landscaping save more than trees
Over 40 engineers, contractors and construction professionals gathered on Oct. 13 at Heritage Hills subdivision in Waukesha to learn about innovative recycling efforts by Bielinski Homes, southeastern Wisconsin's largest home builder, and Prairie Tree Landscaping of Elkhorn. To read the full article and view pictures from the event, click here.
"Beyond Design" bike tour raises $10,000 for WasteCap and The Bike Federation
Seventy riders participated in the Beyond Design Bike Tour on Aug. 19 raising $10,000 for WasteCap Wisconsin and The Bike Federation of Wisconsin. Eppstein Uhen Architects conceived of and planned the event to celebrate their recent expansion with an 84-mile trek from their downtown Milwaukee office to their new downtown Madison office. To read more, click here.
August 2005
WasteCap Announces October Talk & Tour
Seventy percent of residential construction waste is wood, drywall and cardboard. Prairie Tree Landscaping diverts waste from Bielinski home construction by grinding and reusing it on home sites and separating it for recycling. Don't miss this opportunity to meet recycling leaders from Prairie Tree Landscaping and Bielinski Homes, learn about recycling residential construction debris and about a new program to see if vinyl siding scrap can be recycled. The program would not be possible without the generous grant from The Vinyl Institute. This season's Talk & Tour will take place at Heritage Hills subdivision in Waukesha on Oct. 13 from 2 to 5 p.m. For more information and to register for the Talk & Tour visit www.wastecapwi.org/events.htm.
Bike to Madison with Eppstein Uhen to support WasteCap Wisconsin
Eppstein Uhen, a supporter and member of WasteCap Wisconsin, is hosting a bike tour to celebrate the opening of their new offices in Madison. On August 19, bikers will trek from Milwaukee to Madison on an 84 mile route with multiple stops along the way. The ride also serves to promote the ties between Milwaukee and Madison and raise money for WasteCap Wisconsin and the Bike Federation of Wisconsin. For more information and to sign up, contact Rich Tennessen at richt@eppsteinuhen.com or (414) 291-8111.
WasteCap Wisconsin welcomes new board members, board chair
Board Elections were held July 19 to elect a new executive committee, renew current and elect new board members. After four years of dedicated service as Board Chair for WasteCap Wisconsin, Ed Faherty of Faherty, Inc. stepped down from office.
"During Ed's tenure, our staff grew, our Board grew, our programs and impact grew," said Jenna Kunde, associate director of WasteCap Wisconsin. "I am so grateful to him for all the time and dedication he put into WasteCap Wisconsin and in helping us achieve our mission."
Taking over the role of WasteCap Wisconsin Board Chair is Brian Reilly, City of Milwaukee. "Brian has served on the WasteCap Board of Directors for a number of years and has been involved as WasteCap's Vice-Chair for the past year," said Susan Buchanan, WasteCap Wisconsin's executive director. "We look forward to working with Brian as WasteCap continues to grow and expand."
Reelected to the executive committee is Rob Sherman of Kraft Foods and JW Spear of J Spear Associates who will serve as secretary and treasurer respectively. New members joining WasteCap's Board of Directors include David Pellitteri of Pellitteri Waste Systems, Elizabeth Churchill of Marshall Erdman and Associates and Lisa Bridge of Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek.
Outreach specialist accepts position at American Transmission Company
Amber Zuhlke, WasteCap Wisconsin's outreach specialist for the last two years, left WasteCap on July 15 to join the American Transmission Company as their new Environmental Project Manager.
"We are sad to see Amber leave," says Susan Buchanan, Executive Director of WasteCap Wisconsin, "but we wish her the best in her future endeavors." As part of her legacy, Amber leaves behind her a wealth of accomplishments including a growing membership program and the WasteCap Wisconsin website.
New outreach specialist profiled
WasteCap Wisconsin would like to welcome its new Outreach Specialist, Shannon Delaney. Shannon, a Wisconsin native, earned her bachelors degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in December 2003.
She brings with her a background in special event planning, public relations, advertising and membership management as well as experience in two of Milwaukee's neighborhood associations. Her knowledge of membership-based organizations and the media world will be valuable to WasteCap Wisconsin, its clients and its members.
She is a new resident of Shorewood, where she lives with her significant other, Jeff, and their two fish. She enjoys tennis, travel journalism, skiing and exploring the tropical islands. Recent travels took her to Dominica, the ecotourism capital of the Caribbean, where she embarked on a 6-hour hike into the jungle to learn about the Carib Indian culture and their extensive natural park system.
Shannon looks forward to enhancing the public's awareness and understanding of responsible waste management and how it benefits businesses and the environment. She will work with WasteCap's members, clients and the many environmentally-friendly businesses and residents of Wisconsin to transforming waste into resources. Shannon can be reached at sdelaney@wastecapwi.org or (414) 961-1100.
WasteCap's 2004 Year End Report available on the web
The contributions of WasteCap Wisconsin's many partners, members and sponsors have allowed WasteCap to accomplish real, measurable, positive environmental and economic impacts that are developing markets for Wisconsin's recyclable material, transforming waste into valuable resources and reducing costs for our business partners. This work has led to local and national recognition for WasteCap as a leader in recycling, market development and business waste reduction, reuse and recycling. You can view WasteCap Wisconsin's 2004 Year End Report at
http://www.wastecapwi.org/documents/2004%20Year%20End%20Report.pdf
June 2005
Spots Still Available
WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at Epic Systems Corporation’s New Verona Campus
Co-hosted by Epic & JH Findorff & Son
Thursday, June 23, 2005, 4-7pm, in Verona Wisconsin
On Thursday, June 23, 2005 Epic Systems Corporation and JH Findorff & Son will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour featuring Epic’s new Verona Campus. This is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals, commercial developers, haulers and others to learn about successful construction waste reduction and recycling, the use of geothermal heating and cooling, and other sustainable building features. Hear from the general contractor, building owner, WasteCap Wisconsin and others, tour the new facilities, ask questions, and network with others. The Talk & Tour will take place at 4pm and end at 7pm on Thursday, June 23, 2005. Space is limited and pre-registration is required in order to attend this event.
This event is free for WasteCap Wisconsin Members.
WasteCap Wisconsin Seeks New Outreach Specialist
WasteCap is excited to be soliciting applications for the position of Outreach Specialist. WasteCap is seeking a dynamic, hands-on person to manage programs, membership and outreach activities including publications, site visits and business open houses. The Outreach Specialist works under the direction of the Executive Director. This is a full time position. Salary will be commensurate with experience, plus benefits.
Wisconsin Public Service Corporation Meets with
Early Recycling Success at Weston 4
Just six months into construction of the new Weston 4 power plant being built by the Wisconsin Public Service Corporation near Wausau, WI, crews have already recycled over 2348 tons of material! That’s enough material to fill 234 average tandem axle garbage trucks!!! By recycling scrap metal, untreated wood, concrete, asphalt, and cardboard, over 84% of the waste material generated at Weston 4 has been recycled and kept out of Wisconsin’s landfills. “Crews working at the Weston 4 site are doing an excellent job of recycling,” says Ralph McCall, WasteCap Wisconsin Project Manager. “Their accomplishments to date are something to be quite proud of.”
Watch for continued recycling updates on Wisconsin Public Service’s Weston 4 Power Plant in future email bulletins.
WasteCap is looking for a Volunteer Bookkeeper
WasteCap is looking for a volunteer approximately 2 days a month to work in posting payables and receivables, processing memberships/donations, bank reconciliation and to assist in budgeting/forecasting, preparing finance reports, grant accounting, processing payroll and benefits paperwork. QuickBooks experience a must, excel a plus, knowledge of business concepts, trustworthiness and confidentiality. Flexible working hours and environment. Join our team!
If you are interested in helping us out please contact Shannon at sdelaney@wastecapwi.org or 414-961-1100.
April 2005
WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at Epic Systems Corporation's New Verona Campus
Co-hosted by Epic & JH Findorff & Son
Thursday, June 23, 2005, 4-7pm, in Verona Wisconsin
On Thursday, June 23, 2005 Epic Systems Corporation and JH Findorff & Son will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour featuring Epic's new Verona Campus. This is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals, commercial developers, haulers and others to learn bout successful construction waste reduction and recycling, the use of geothermal heating and cooling, and other sustainable building features. Hear from the general contractor, building owner, WasteCap Wisconsin and others, tour the new facilities, ask questions, and network with others. The Talk & Tour will take place at 4pm and end at 7pm on Thursday, June 23, 2005. Space is limited and pre-registration is required in order to attend this event.
Join our team! WasteCap is looking for a Volunteer Bookkeeper
WasteCap is looking for a volunteer approximately 2 days a month to work in posting payables and receivables, processing memberships/donations, bank reconciliation and to assist in budgeting/forecasting, preparing finance reports, grant accounting, processing payroll and benefits paperwork. QuickBooks experience a must, excel a plus, knowledge of business concepts, trustworthiness and confidentiality. Flexible working hours and environment.
Join our team!
If you are interested in helping us out please contact Shannon at sdelaney@wastecapwi.org or 414-961-1100.
Earth Day Celebrations a Success!
On Earth Day of this year, WasteCap recognized the waste reduction and recycling successes achieved by crews on three of its projects. Crews at Wisconsin Public Service Corporation's Weston 4 project, at Epic Systems Corporations' Verona Campus managed by JH Findorff & Son, and at the Overture Center in Madison, also managed by Findorff, were all provided food and drink during their morning break or at lunch as a gesture of gratitude for their waste reduction and recycling efforts. "What better way to celebrate Earth Day than to recognize the people who are helping us to positively impact and give back to the environment" said Ralph McCall, project manager at WasteCap. All three projects are achieving recycling rates of over 70%, having recycled over 6,700 tons of material to day. These success are only made possible through the dedication and commitment of the crews on each site and WasteCap would like to congratulate all those who've worked on these projects once again for their accomplishments.
Watch for continued updates on these project's successes in future email bulletins.
WasteCap in the Media
candd Recycler: The Home Front
How did one of Wisconsin's largest home builders get named Environmentalist of the Year, keep 1,250 cubic yards (approx. 624,000 pounds) of gypsum drywall out of landfills after less than a year, build soils and have the partnership of state regulatory authorities in this new recycling program? Find out and read more about one of WasteCap's biggest projects in the article "The Home Front" by Jenna Kunde and Katie Udell featured in Construction & Demolition Recycling.
http://www.cdrecycler.com/articles/article.asp?id=4790&CAtID=&SubCAtID=/
March 2005
Staff Transitions at Wastecap WI
WasteCap Wisconsin would like to offer its congratulations to longtime, dedicated Executive Director, Jenna Kunde, who gave birth to a seven pound five ounce baby boy named Ethan on March 9th. In anticipation of Ethan’s arrival, Jenna has stepped down as WasteCap’s Executive Director and has been working over the last six months to create a smooth transition between herself and WasteCap’s new Executive Director, Susan Buchanan. Jenna’s stalwart dedication to building WasteCaps organizational excellence along with her unending enthusiasm for the mission has been responsible for building our exemplary reputation as an organization that provides outstanding services and results. Susan brings with her over 20 years of experience and expertise in the architectural and construction industries and is already serving as an asset to the growth of our organization.
We wish congratulations to Jenna and her new family and the best of luck to Susan in her new position. Jenna will return to WasteCap on a limited basis after her maternity leave to work on training and project management.
Talk & Tour: The Future of Food Waste Disposal
On Tuesday, April 19, 2005 Ecology LLC will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Earth Day Talk & Tour at Pandl’s restaurant in Bayside. The Talk & Tour will highlight the new Wet Waste Recovery System installed at the restaurant. The Wet Waste Recovery System, which has over 1,000 applications, collects and liquefies organic waste, allowing the waste to be diverted from landfills and utilized as a resource (i.e. energy alternatives and soil regeneration). Used in Europe for over two decades, this system is the first of its kind in the United States. This Talk & Tour is a great opportunity for anyone interested in the recycling of organics. Come and see the Wet Waste Recovery System in action, hear from Ecology LLC and the owner of Pandl’s, network with others, enjoy wine, cheese, and an assortment of hors devours provided by Pandl’s, and learn about how WasteCap can serve as a resource for your organic waste and compost needs.
WasteCap Still Needs Your Help!!!
Fill Out Our Online Electronics Recycling Survey
In an effort to better understand electronics recycling in Wisconsin WasteCap has composed a short survey that we would like each and every one of you to fill out. The International Association of Electronics Recyclers estimates that one billion computers will become available for recycling before 2010 and that only about 10% of obsolete computers are currently being recycled. WasteCap is working to address this problem and your participation in our short survey would be greatly appreciated as we gather information.
To fill out the survey visit http://www.wastecapwi.org/electronicssurvey.htm
February 2005
Wisconsin Recycling Markets Directory for 2005
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is updating the web-based Wisconsin Recycling Markets Directory (WRMD) for 2005. This free resource, widely used by the business and recycling communities, lists markets for over 115 different categories of recycled materials. Companies currently listed will be contacted by DNR from late February through early March to update their information. If you know of companies that are not listed in the directory, please have them contact John Hendren at John.Hendren@dnr.state.wi.us. Companies can also fill out a survey online at http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/wm/Markets/websurv.htm. The completed form can be sent or faxed to DNR.
WasteCap Needs Your Help!!!
Fill Out Our Online Electronics Recycling Survey
In an effort to better understand electronics recycling in Wisconsin WasteCap has composed a short survey that we would like each and every one of you to fill out. The International Association of Electronics Recyclers estimates that one billion computers will become available for recycling before 2010 and that only about 10% of obsolete computers are currently being recycled. WasteCap is working to address this problem and your participation in our short survey would be greatly appreciated as we gather information.
To fill out the survey visit http://www.wastecapwi.org/electronicssurvey.htm
Talk & Tour: The Future of Food Waste Disposal
On Tuesday, April 19, 2005 Ecology LLC will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Earth Day Talk & Tour at Pandl’s restaurant in Bayside. The Talk & Tour will highlight the new Wet Waste Recovery System installed at the restaurant. The Wet Waste Recovery System, which has over 1,000 applications, collects and liquefies organic waste, allowing the waste to be diverted from landfills and utilized as a resource (i.e. energy alternatives and soil regeneration). Used in Europe for over two decades, this system is the first of its kind in the United States. This Talk & Tour is a great opportunity for anyone interested in the recycling of organics. Come and see the Wet Waste Recovery System in action, hear from Ecology LLC and the owner of Pandl’s, network with others, enjoy wine, cheese, and an assortment of hors devours provided by Pandl’s, and learn about how WasteCap can serve as a resource for your organic waste and compost needs.
WasteCap Completes Fluorescent Tube Recycling Grant
Over the past year, WasteCap Wisconsin has been working on behalf of the Southeast Wisconsin Waste Reduction Coalition (SEWWRC) (through funding provided by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources), to educate businesses in Southeastern Wisconsin about the need to recycle their fluorescent tubes. Using fluorescent lighting is energy efficient. Fluorescent bulbs last 10 times longer, operate at a cooler temperature, and use less energy while providing the same brightness and color as incandescent bulbs. Unfortunately fluorescent bulbs contain potentially harmful substances such as highly toxic heavy metals (mercury, cadmium and lead) which, if ingested, can have negative impacts on human health. Due to this toxicity, businesses in Wisconsin are required to recycle their fluorescent lamps rather than disposing of them in landfills.
To read more about WasteCap’s efforts over the last year to educate Wisconsin’s businesses about the need to recycle their fluorescent tubes, please view the grants final report at:
http://www.wastecapwi.org/documents/tubesgrantfinalreport.doc
Learn more about how you can recycle your fluorescent tubes by visiting:
http://www.wastecapwi.org/documents/tubesgrantfinalreport.doc
January 2005
A Few Spots Still Available!!! WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at the WI Dept. of Natural Resources Northeast Region Headquarters Co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Green Building Alliance
Tuesday, January 18th, 2005, 1:00-3:30pm, in Green Bay, WI
On Tuesday, January 18, 2005 the WI Dept. of Natural Resources will be hosting and the Wisconsin Green Building Alliance is co-sponsoring a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at the new Northeast Region Headquarters building. The building, scheduled for completion in February 2005, is targeting a Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the US Green Building Council. The contractors have done an excellent job of recycling during construction. This Talk & Tour is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals and others to learn about planning for a LEED certified building projects including planning for recycling on site, how energy efficiency can be achieved through conventional design, and other factors that impact LEED certification. The Talk & Tour will take place at 1:00pm and end at 3:30pm on Tuesday, January 18, 2005. Space is limited and pre-registration is required in order to attend this event.
December 2004
You are Invited to a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at the
WI Dept. of Natural Resources Northeast Region Headquarters
On Tuesday, January 18, 2005 the WI Dept. of Natural Resources will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at the new Northeast Region Headquarters building. The building, scheduled for completion in February 2005, is targeting a Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the US Green Building Council. This Talk & Tour is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals and others to learn about planning for a LEED certified building project, how energy efficiency can be achieved through conventional design, and other factors that impact LEED certification. The Talk & Tour will take place at 1:00pm and end at 3:30pm on Tuesday, January 18, 2005. Space is limited and pre-registration is required in order to attend this event.
WasteCap Launches New Website
WasteCap Wisconsin has a new look! A new logo and now a New Website! WasteCap is happy to announce that our new website is now live. Built upon the same reliable content you saw before, our new website is easier to navigate, more professional, and easier on the eyes. As with all web endeavors, our website is a work in progress. While we are extremely happy with the new website, we realize that there is always room for improvement. As you take a look at the new site, let us know if there are mistakes that need to be fixed, problems that should be addressed, or changes that we could make that would make the website more user friendly. We appreciate any comments you may have.
You can view the new site at our usual address www.wastecapwi.org. Send any comments you may have to Shannon at sdelaney@wastecapwi.org.
Reflections on Germany
A Wisconsin Green Tier Bavaria 2004 Delegation
By Jenna Kunde, Executive Director WasteCap Wisconsin
I was given an amazing opportunity this Fall - to participate as part of a delegation to Germany and learn how they have become international leaders in balancing both business and environmental interests - a position Wisconsin is pursuing. This delegation was led by Senator Neil Kedzie, sponsor of the Green Tier Law, Secretary Scott Hassett of the DNR, and attended by leaders from the printing industry, the linear infrastructure industry and the building industry.
Read more about Jenna's trip at http://www.wastecapwi.org/bavaria.htm.
November 2004
We Still have Spots Available for the WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at Madison Gas and Electric and UW-Madison’s West Campus Cogeneration Facility
Tuesday, November 16, 2004, 2-5pm in Madison, WI.
On November 16, 2004 Madison Gas and Electric Company is hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at the new West Campus Cogeneration Facility in Madison, WI. The new cogeneration power plant, being built by Madison Gas and Electric and the UW Madison, will be one of the cleanest in the Midwest. The event will highlight the facility’s recycling program where crews are achieving a nearly 90% recycling rate and have already saved the project $81,000 by recycling. In addition, learn about new more efficient methods of transporting waste materials on the worksite and receive a hands-on tour of the facility itself. This Talk & Tour is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals, haulers and others to learn about successful commercial construction waste recycling.
From Waste to Resources” WasteCap to Write New Daily Reporter Column
Staring this November WasteCap Wisconsin will be writing a monthly newspaper column for “The Daily Reporter,” Wisconsin’s construction, law and public record authority. The monthly column entitled “From Waste to Resources” will focus on topics related to construction and demolition recycling. This month’s column, “Construction Waste Recycling Saves Money,” highlights the successful waste management and recycling program that is being implemented during the construction of Madison Gas and Electric and the UW Madison’s West Campus Cogeneration Facility. To view the column please visit
http://www.dailyreporter.com/pub/2_622/construction/20035345-1.html. Then, watch for future columns on the second Monday of every month.
WasteCap Welcomes Newest Staff Additions
WasteCap Wisconsin is pleased to welcome the newest additions to our growing staff! In October Megan Helt-Baldwin and Kevin Dunphy joined the WasteCap Wisconsin team as Communication Specialist Interns. Each will work part time on a variety of projects including media and communications, Talk & Tour planning, and recycling documentation. “We are very excited to have Megan and Kevin join our team” said Jenna Kunde, executive director of WasteCap Wisconsin. “Both of them have unique skill sets which will add a valuable dimension to the expertise in our office.” Megan is a graduate of UW Milwaukee with a BFA in graphic design and recently finished two terms of service with AmeriCorps at Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity. Kevin is currently a graduate student at the School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP) of UW-Milwaukee where he is in the Joint Master Degree Program in Architecture and Urban Planning. If you wish to contact either Megan or Kevin you can contact them at
megan@wastecapwi.org and kevin@wastecapwi.org.
October 2004
You are Invited to a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at the West Campus Cogeneration Facility
On Tuesday, November 16, 2004 Madison Gas and Electric Company will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at the new West Campus Cogeneration Facility in Madison, WI. The new natural gas fired plant, being built by Madison Gas and Electric and the UW Madison, will be one of the cleanest in the Midwest. The tour will highlight the facility’s recycling program which has already saved the project $77,000, new more efficient methods of transporting waste materials on the worksite, and a hands-on preview of the facility itself. This Talk & Tour is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals, haulers and others to learn about successful commercial construction waste recycling. The Talk & Tour will take place at 2pm and end at 5pm on Tuesday, November 16, 2004. Space is limited and pre-registration is required in order to attend the event.
WasteCap Instrumental in WDNR Policy Shift
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) recently announced a new streamlined process to encourage the recycling of drywall waste. Using a low hazard exemption, drywall waste from new construction may be ground up and spread on farm fields as a substitute for agricultural gypsum statewide. Three years of collaboration between WasteCap and the WDNR on several construction waste management projects has formed the framework for this policy. The information provided to the WDNR through working with WasteCap on several projects, particularly the Drywall-to-Fertilizer Project conducted in 2003 and the recycling of drywall from the construction of Alliant Energy Corporate Center, provided the department with the experience and confidence they needed to allow widespread use of the drywall recycling techniques pioneered by WasteCap Wisconsin.
While the new WDNR policy still requires that builders, processors, and others who wish to use this technique obtain a low hazard exemption, the process for securing the exemption have been streamlined, including substantially reducing the submittals normally required for WDNR approval. "The new WDNR policy will have a major impact on reducing the amount of new construction drywall that enters state landfills” said Jenna Kunde, Executive Director of WasteCap Wisconsin. "I am very excited about the opportunity we now have in Wisconsin to shift drywall scrap from creating toxic gases in landfills to helping build Wisconsin’s agricultural soils," she said.
Participate in the Wisconsin Bavaria 2004 Delegation
Ask questions, see and hear video, and participate via email in The Wisconsin Green Tier Bavaria 2004 Delegation, led by Department of Natural Resources Secretary Scott Hassett and Senator Neal Kedzie. This web site,
www.greentierwi.info, contains extensive information about Bavaria and the trip, will be updated daily throughout the Oct. 10 through 15 delegation, and provides a chance to ask questions of the delegates and hosts. Jenna Kunde, WasteCap Wisconsin Executive Director and one of the delegates, said that she "encourages leaders throughout Wisconsin to participate and so that many can share in the goal to understand Bavaria's policies and practices that cooperatively promote environmental excellence, economic growth and healthy communities."
WasteCap Announces Weston 4 Project with Wisconsin Public Service Corporation
This October WasteCap Wisconsin will begin working with the Wisconsin Public Service Corporation to implement a construction site waste management and recycling plan for the construction of the new Weston 4 Power Plant being built near Wausau Wisconsin. WasteCap Wisconsin, Inc. will provide technical assistance, educational assistance, monitor, measure, document and publicize results of construction waste management efforts for Wisconsin Public Service Corporation (WPSC) and then Washington Group during the construction process. “We are very excited about this project,” said Ralph McCall, Project Manager for WasteCap Wisconsin. “The potential recycling subsequent monetary savings on a project of this scale is tremendous and WPSC and the Washington Group are dedicated to making this program a success.”
Please watch future email bulletins for updates on this exciting new project!
September 2004
WasteCap Adopts A New Logo
WasteCap is pleased to announce that we have a new logo! After thorough research and review of the results of last month's logo survey, WasteCap Wisconsin's Board of Directors at its September 16, 2004 meeting voted to replace WasteCap's old logo with the new logo shown below. "We are excited about the logo change," said Jenna Kunde, Executive Director of WasteCap Wisconsin. "The swirling ball suggests action, recycling, and connections being made, the shadow conveys the shadow our work leaves on future generations, and as we grow and work with professional organizations throughout Wisconsin and beyond, it conveys the excellence we strive to deliver in all of our services.” WasteCap will be working over the coming months to incorporate the new logo into the organization. Thank you to everyone who helped to make this transformation possible!
WasteCap Welcomes New Associate Director Susan Buchanan
WasteCap Wisconsin is pleased to welcome the newest addition to our staff, Susan Buchanan. “We are very pleased to secure the service of someone with Ms. Buchanan’s credentials and accomplishments” WasteCap Wisconsin’s Executive Director, Jenna Kunde, said in making the announcement. “Her knowledge of architecture, construction planning, and real estate, as well as her experience in marketing and non-profit management, make her uniquely qualified to serve our clients and bring a new depth of knowledge to our organization,” Kunde said.
Susan comes to WasteCap with a wide background offering a variety of significant skills including a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning from the University of Wisconsin, School of Architecture and Planning with an emphasis on environmental planning and land use; 20 years as a Real Estate Broker; 15 years as a marketing professional in Architecture and Construction industries and eight years as the Executive Director of a non-profit association - the Downtown Waukesha Business Improvement District.
On a personal note, Susan and her husband, Mike, are the owners of 25 acres of ecologically unique property on Washington Island that they are proud to have worked together with the DNR to preserve. In her time off, Susan enjoys competitive cycling, kayaking, hiking, promoting the arts and traveling.
Susan looks forward to working with the Board and Staff to bring more awareness of WasteCap’s important mission and to bring more opportunities in WasteCap’s target areas including food waste, computers, and especially in the built industry including architecture, engineering, construction and real estate. “I am excited to be part of a great team of professionals that is committed to making a difference in this world by implementing such an important mission -- to preserve the environment!
WasteCap Wisconsin Seeks Communications Specialist
WasteCap is excited to be soliciting applications for the position of Communications Specialist. For this part time position, about 10 hours a week, WasteCap is seeking an individual with excellent research, writing and computer skills. The Communication Specialist will have the opportunity to write articles for news media and trade publications, gain experience managing a list serve and web site, learn about business waste reduction and recycling, and make a positive difference for the environment we share. WasteCap’s office is located on the East side of Milwaukee. We offer flexible working hours and are willing to work with students to fulfill internship requirements.
August 2004
WasteCap Invited to Serve on International Delegation
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Secretary Scott Hassett has invited WasteCap Wisconsin to join a delegation of about 30 people representing Wisconsin on a State Government environmental fact-finding mission to Bavaria, Germany in October 2004. The trip’s purpose is to learn how Bavaria has been able to achieve environmental and economic results across multiple sectors and how we can apply those lessons back here in the state of Wisconsin. “We are both thrilled and honored to be part of this delegation” said Jenna Kunde, Executive Director of WasteCap Wisconsin and WasteCap’s representative for this trip. “Facilitating and implementing the exchange of information from businesses successful in their waste reduction and recycling programs to those who could benefit from that information is our fundamental mission and this trip lends us an excellent opportunity to do just that.”
The state of Wisconsin and Bavaria have been working together since 1998 through the Multi-State Working Group on Environmental Performance, a network that promotes respectful, collaborative, and innovative approaches to environmental results by involving business, government, and non-government interests. Bavaria has an international reputation for regulatory innovation that produces results and an economy that makes it a world player.
Please watch for an update on this trip in WasteCap’s November Email Bulletin!
You are Invited to a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at Veridian Homes
On Thursday, August 26, 2004 Veridian Homes will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at their new Welcome Home in Madison, WI. The Welcome Home is a home designed to be environmentally-friendly, sustainable, and energy efficient. The tour will highlight the recycling program that took place at the home site and takes place on all Veridian's home construction sites, the sustainable-building features that were used, and the energy saving products that were incorporated into the home. This is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals, haulers and others to learn about successful construction waste recycling from home construction and sustainable building. You will see first hand how the recycling program works, the sustainable, energy-efficient building techniques used, and have networking and information-sharing opportunities. Veridian's Welcome Home is part of the Department of Energy's Building America program and is 40% more energy efficient than a home built to standard code in Wisconsin. The tour will take place at 1pm and end at 4pm on Thursday, August 26, 2004. Space is limited and pre-registration is required in order to attend the event.
WasteCap Needs Your Input
Growth is on the horizon for WasteCap Wisconsin. Over the past year, WasteCap has seen growth in all of our services, and we are increasingly being recognized as leaders in our field. With this growth in mind, WasteCap is considering a new look that more accurately reflects our organization. This includes updated printed materials, an updated logo, and a new and improved website that will be unveiled in September. While our old logo has served us well, we think it is time for a change. We would like to convey a unique, flexible, professional feel in our image and represent the organization's mission and would like your input on how we can do this.
July 2004
WasteCap Wisconsin Seeks New Assistant Director
WasteCap is excited to be soliciting applications for the position of Assistant Director. WasteCap is seeking a dynamic, hands-on, person to help maintain and enhance WasteCap’s services, manage and organize the organization’s functions, and help develop funding sources. The Assistant Director of WasteCap Wisconsin will work under the direction of the Executive Director. This is a full time position. Salary will be commensurate with experience, plus full benefits.
You are Invited to a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at Veridian Homes
On Thursday, August 26, 2004 Veridian Homes will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at their new Welcome Home. The Welcome Home is a home designed to be environmentally-friendly, sustainable, and energy efficient. The tour will highlight the recycling program that took place at the home site and continues to take place on Veridian's other home sites, the sustainable-building features that were used, and the energy saving products that were incorporated into the home. This is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals, haulers and others to learn about successful construction waste recycling from home construction. You will see first hand the sustainable, energy-efficient building techniques used at the Welcome Home project site, and have plenty of networking and information-sharing opportunities. Veridian's Welcome Home is part of the Department of Energy's Building America program and is 40% more energy efficient than a home built to standard code in Wisconsin. The tour will take place in Madison Wisconsin beginning at 1pm and ending at 4pm on Thursday, August 26, 2004. Space is limited and pre-registration is required in order to attend the event.
WasteCap’s Reach Extending Beyond State Borders
With numerous waste reduction and recycling success stories to share and an ever increasing plate of current projects, WasteCap Wisconsin’s reach is not only positively impacting Wisconsin, but it is extending outside state lines as well. Increasingly WasteCap Wisconsin is being turned to as a national expert in waste reduction and recycling for businesses. Last month, Jenna Kunde, executive director at WasteCap, spoke at a regional conference for the Native American community hosted by TASWER (Tribal Association of Solid Waste and Emergency Response). WasteCap was also recently asked to speak at this year’s US Green Building Council Conference in Oregon, which last year hosted over 5,000 attendees. “To be called upon to speak to a national audience is a great honor” said Jenna Kunde. “WasteCap is a driving force in this field and we are extremely excited that our work is not only having a positive impact on the natural resource in Wisconsin, but also potentially nationwide.
June 2004
Veridian Homes Wins Business Friend of the Environment Award
On May 15th WasteCap Wisconsin member, Veridian Homes, continued to set precedent as a leader in environmentally-conscious construction by winning the prestigious Wisconsin Business Friend of the Environment Award for outstanding achievements in environmental protection. Veridian Homes, in partnership with Pellitteri Waste Systems and Construction Waste Solutions, designed and implemented a scrap wood and cardboard recycling program in 2003 with the goal of diverting waste from Wisconsin’s landfills and turning it into useful products. WasteCap is working with them to provide technical and educational assistance, monitor and document the recycling efforts. This program, which is being implemented on all of Veridian’s homes, has saved 260 tons of material from Wisconsin’s landfills to date – diverting over half of their waste. “Wisconsin is very fortunate to have companies that go the extra mile to exceed government regulations to protect the environment and keep our state clean,” said Jeff Schoepke, director the Wisconsin Environmental Working Group, the affiliate of the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce which sponsors annual awards. Veridian was one of nine winners chosen from a field of 32 candidates honored at the 15th Annual Environmental Policy and Awards Conference on May 12th.
WasteCap is continuing to work with Veridian Homes to fine tune their home site recycling program. A WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour will be held in August to showcase the program’s success and share their story! Please watch WasteCap Wisconsin’s website, www.wastecapwi.org, and future email bulletins for more information about the Talk & Tour as well as updates on Veridian’s accomplishments.
WasteCap Begins Work on candd Recycling Toolkit
WasteCap has secured a grant from the US EPA to develop an educational toolkit and training program targeted to commercial contractors for reducing, reusing, and recycling construction debris.
“We have had the privilege to help more than twenty construction and demolition projects around Wisconsin successfully reduce, reuse and recycle, and find an increasing interest in construction and demolition waste recycling across the state,” said Jenna Kunde, Executive Director of WasteCap Wisconsin. “By developing a toolkit and accompanying training program using existing tools and ones we’ve developed through our experience, we hope to give contractors the tools to successfully plan, implement, monitor and document reuse and recycling on their construction sites.” In the creation of this toolkit, WasteCap has partnered with Dept. of Administration Division of Facilities Development, Flad & Associates, Kahler Slater Architects, Oscar J. Boldt Construction, Opus North Corporation, Packer Industries, Pellitteri Waste Systems, PLANNING Design Build, Recycle America Alliance, The Jansen Group, Kubala Washatko Architects, USDA Forest Products Lab, UW-System, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. For more information, contact Jenna at jkunde@wastecapwi.org.
Fluorescent Tube Recycling Resource Webpage Launched
Working on behalf of the Southeast Wisconsin Waste Reduction Coalition (SEWWRC), WasteCap Wisconsin has been working to educate businesses in Southeastern Wisconsin about the need and availability to recycle their fluorescent light bulbs. Nearly every Wisconsin business, institution and agency generates waste fluorescent light bulbs that contain mercury which could potentially harm both human health and the environment if they are not handled properly. However, what many businesses do not know is how to recycle their spent bulbs, even though the state mandates it. Through funding from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the SEWWRC is working to make sure businesses know about and comply with the state mandates that insist fluorescent tubes, which contain mercury and other hazardous materials, be recycled. As part of this effort, we have created a resource website for businesses to provide them with basic information about fluorescent tubes and to lists of potential recyclers. To view this site, please visit: http://www.wastecapwi.org/fluorescenttubes.htm or http://www.besmart.org/hazwaste/business/bulb.html
May 2004
WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at Urban Ecology Center a Success
On April 21st, architects, contractors, building owners, consultants, sustainable-building products suppliers, and others gathered at the new Urban Ecology Center for a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour and a glimpse of an excellent example of sustainable building. Over the course of the afternoon, attendees explored the building which is still under construction and heard about the key features of this unique building project from the building's owner, architect Joel Krueger of the Kubala Washatko Architects, Inc., and the contractor Monique Charlier of The Jansen Group. "As an organization that focuses on environmental education, we wanted to build with as little impact on the earth and its resources as possible. We also want to be able to model and teach others how to build 'green,' using the new facility as an educational tool" says Jim McGinity, research liaison at the Urban Ecology Center.
The Urban Ecology Center has implemented an aggressive construction waste recycling program during the construction of their new center as well as incorporating environmentally friendly, sustainable-building features including daylighting, natural ventilation, use of recycling and reused materials and the creative use of rainwater into the building's design. To date, they have recycled more than 76% of the debris from construction, recycling cardboard, metal, drywall, wood, concrete and cans and bottles.
Special thanks to Urban Ecology Center, Kubala Washatko Architects, and The Jansen Group for their hard work in putting together this Talk & Tour and for their dedication to making this a green project. Thanks also to the contractors who supply sustainable products and services to the Urban Ecology Center and had displays at the event: Alpine Plywood Corporation, Cape Townsend, Inc, Weather-Tek Design Center, and Wellenstein & Sons, Inc.
Earth Day Lunch at Epic Systems Corporation Celebrates Recycling Efforts
On Earth Day, April 22, 2004 JH Findorff employees were treated to an Earth Day lunch to recognize their recycling efforts on Epic Systems Corporation's new Verona, WI campus. "One of the biggest key components to creating a successful recycling program are the efforts made by a project's workers, and to date the JH Findorff employees working on this project are doing a great job" said Ralph McCall, project manager for WasteCap Wisconsin. Epic Systems Corporation and JH Findorff have been working with WasteCap Wisconsin to recycle concrete, wood, cardboard, cans and bottles, metal, and other construction debris during the new campus's construction. Please watch for further updates on the Epic Systems Corporation Campus construction debris recycling efforts in future email bulletins and on WasteCap's website www.wastecapwi.org.
Bielinski Homes is Granted Approval for Wood Grinding and Drywall Demonstration
WasteCap is pleased to announce that Bielinski Homes, in conjunction with Prairie Tree Landscape Center, has been granted DNR approval for wood grinding and drywall demonstration on their home sites. WasteCap has been working with Bielinski Homes on their home site recycling program and the granting of this approval will greatly increase their recycling capabilities. Bielinski plans to grind all of the scrap wood and drywall generated on their home sites and then spread it on the home lots for mulch, erosion control, and fertilizer. "Bielinski Homes and Prairie Landscape are making great strides in construction waste recycling and we are looking forward to continuing work with them" said Jenna Kunde, executive director at WasteCap Wisconsin. "They are helping to pave the way for the future of drywall recycling in Wisconsin."
April 2004
You are Invited to a Earth Week Talk & Tour at the Urban Ecology Center
On Wednesday, April 21, 2004 Urban Ecology Center, The Jansen Group, and The Kubala Washatko Architects will be hosting a WasteCap Wisconsin Talk & Tour at Urban Ecology Center's new environmental center. This Talk & Tour will highlight the Center's successful commercial construction waste recycling program, the reused and recycled materials used during construction and the many other sustainable building features the building incorporates. This is a great opportunity for architects, builders, contractors, building owners, recycling professionals, haulers and others to learn about efficient construction waste management and sustainable-building techniques from a leading contractor at the project site, to network with other businesses and to share information. Starting at 3pm, the Talk & Tour will include talks from the contractor, architect and building owner, a tour of this under-construction building and an opportunity to hear from the suppliers who provide the sustainable products and services being utilized.
First-In-The-State Exemption Awarded to Allow Recycling of Engineered Lumber along with Dimensional Lumber!
On March 31, 2004, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued a letter to Construction Waste Solutions informing them that Veridian Homes has received a low hazard exemption to grind scrap engineered lumber along with dimensional lumber and use the resulting wood mulch on home sites to control erosion. This use is transforming wood waste into a valuable resource and provides a reduction in soil loss of up to 88% (compared to silt fence which provides a reduction in soil loss of approximately 42%). With several partners, WasteCap Wisconsin conducted the tests and research required by the WI DNR to come to this decision and wrote the final report. You can read the final report and view the best management practices document developed by Dane County Land Conservation Department at www.wastecapwi.org/documents/VeridianFinalDNRReport.pdf.
Overture Project Achieved a 55% Recycling Rate, Exceeding Goals
WasteCap Wisconsin is pleased to announce that the Overture Center for the Arts construction project achieved a 55% recycling rate during phase one through the end of 2003. Construction on the 385,000 square foot Center began in June 2001. JH Findorff & Son, the project's contractor, has surpassed their original recycling rate goal of 35%, by 20%. "JH Findorff and all of the subcontractors have done a phenomenal job on this project." said Jenna Kunde, WasteCap Wisconsin. "Not only have their efforts positively impacted our environment, but they also saved $28,633 in avoided disposal costs." WasteCap will continue to work with JH Findorff through phase two of the center's construction and we look forward to continuing to help them achieve such positive results! We thank the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for the Demonstration Grant which made possible the implementation, monitoring and documentation of recycling on this very tight, downtown site.
To view the final report for Phase One of the Overture Project please visit http://www.wastecapwi.org/documents/overturefinalreport.pdf.
Madison Gas and Electric (MG&E) Already Meeting with Success
With just a few months of construction under their belts, MG&E is already achieving success with the construction waste management and recycling programs at their new West Campus Cogeneration Facility. To date MG&E has reached a 73% recycling rate by volume, earning the project $50,792 in avoided disposal costs and scrap revenue. "MG&E has made a commitment to recover as much construction debris as possible, and we are pleased that we are able to help them with that goal" said Jenna Kunde, WasteCap Wisconsin's Executive Director. WasteCap has been working with MG&E to develop a waste management plan, educate contractors, provide technical assistance, monitor the waste reduction efforts, and report on the progress of MG&E's efforts. Please look for further updates this project in future email bulletins and on WasteCap's website www.wastecapwi.org.
March 2004
You Are Invited
You are invited to an Earth Week Talk & Tour hosted by the Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee, WI. It will be held on Wednesday, April 21 from 3:00 - 6:00 pm and feature their successful commercial construction waste recycling program, the reused and recycled materials used in construction of the new environmental center and the many other sustainable building features it incorporates. Hear from the contractor, architect and building owner, and learn how to incorporate these features, products and a recycling program in your next project. Tour this under-construction building and hear from the suppliers and people who provide the sustainable products and services, so that you can decide if you want to use them for upcoming jobs.
WasteCap Welcomes Its Newest Employee
WasteCap Wisconsin is happy to welcome the newest member of our growing staff, Nat Davauer. Nat will be working at WasteCap part time as a Data Specialist. "Nat has been working at WasteCap on a limited basis for several years and we are excited that he can become a more permanent part of our team" said Jenna Kunde, Executive Director of WasteCap. Born and raised on a dairy farm near Madison, WI, Nat attended the University of Wisconsin Madison where he earned a degree in Art. After college, he spent 2 ½ years traveling in Asia where he developed an interest in Photography, an interest that has today turned into his main profession. Nat also enjoys working with computers and has been informally working with them ever since his Dad bought him a computer in the early 1980's. Nat and his wife, a student at the University of Milwaukee pursuing certification as an interpreter for the deaf, currently live in Milwaukee. You can reach Nat at tech@wastecapwi.org or at our Milwaukee office at 414-961-1100. Welcome, Nat, to the WasteCap Wisconsin Team!
Highlight your Business' Waste Reduction and Recycling Success
Does your business have a great story of saving financial as well as natural resources through reuse and recycling? Has your business developed clever educational or other techniques that have made recycling successful in your business?
We have lots of stories of successful business waste reduction and recycling in Wisconsin. A few top ones will be chosen to be put into a new publication being developed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and other partners. This publication will remind businesses about the state law which requires recycling and provide stories of economically and environmentally-successful business waste reduction and recycling.
If you have a story to share, please contact Joe Van Rossum, Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center, at (608) 262-0936 or vanrossum@epd.engr.wisc.edu.
February 2004
WasteCap Wisconsin 2003 Year In Review
Thanks to its members, partners, and sponsors, in 2003 WasteCap Wisconsin was able to accomplish growth in its Board, its staff, its programs, its budget, and its impact. WasteCap and its partners and members diverted over 5.3 MILLION pounds of material from Wisconsin’s landfills through reuse and recycling during 2003. In addition, our members and partners have continued to work on a variety of projects, both with WasteCap and on their own, continuing to reduce, reuse and recycle while also teaching others how to multiply their positive impact on the environment.
Veridian Homes Recycles its First 3,000 Cubic Yards (and over 200 tons)
Veridian Homes, Dane County’s Largest Home builder, in partnership with Construction Waste Solutions and Pellitteri Waste Systems, started recycling their construction debris in July of 2003. Through January, 2004 they have already recovered over 3,500 cubic yards and 230 tons of wood and cardboard. The wood is being ground and used on building sites to reduce erosion and the cardboard is being recycled. WasteCap Wisconsin is providing technical assistance, educational assistance, monitoring, and documenting results of the project. Keep watching for exciting news from their wood recycling efforts.
January 2004
WasteCap Opens New Office to be Led by Ralph McCall
WasteCap Wisconsin is happy to welcome the newest member of our growing staff, Ralph McCall, as a Project Manager for the Madison area. Ralph has been involved with WasteCap Wisconsin for many years, previously serving as a WasteCap Wisconsin Board member, as Chair of WasteCap’s Board, and as Interim Director, and WasteCap is excited to add such a valuable asset to our list of staff members. "Ralph has shown amazing support and dedication to WasteCap Wisconsin and to is mission since WasteCap’s inception, and having him as a staff member will benefit WasteCap greatly" said Jenna Kunde, WasteCap Wisconsin Executive Director. Working out of WasteCap Wisconsin’s new Madison office, Ralph will be overseeing WasteCap’s projects in that region of the state. Ralph is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, camping, fishing, and hiking, and prior to his employment as Project Manager for WasteCap, Ralph was a businessman, owning his own printing business for 20 years.
WasteCap’s Email Bulletin Gets New Look
When looking at this month’s WasteCap email bulletin you may notice that it looks a little different: it’s shorter. In an effort to better serve you, our readers and clients, WasteCap Wisconsin is making some changes to our email bulletin. We will be sending our traditional email bulletins out every other month starting in February. On the other months, such as this January and March, we will send out a condensed bulletin. These condensed email bulletins will contain a WasteCap Update, Member Profile, Legislative Update, and an Upcoming Events section. By taking this approach, WasteCap can keep you informed about what is going on both here at WasteCap as well as in the community and allow us more time to research articles for the lengthier bulletins to better serve your needs.
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