All News Releases By Date

Atlanta Companies Commit to Eliminate Waste and Be Part of the Southeast’s First Zero Waste Zone

Release Date: 02/06/2009
Contact Information: Davina Marraccini, (404) 562-8293, marraccini.davina@epa.gov

(Atlanta, Ga. – Feb. 6, 2009) – On Tuesday, local leaders, federal, state and other local agencies and partners will announce the creation of the first Zero Waste Zone in the southeast, and one of the first in the nation. Phase one of the Zero Waste Zone will be implemented in the downtown Atlanta convention district and participating foodservice operations pledge to recycle, reuse spent grease for the local production of biofuel and compost or donate food residuals.

Speakers will explain the concept of a Zero Waste Zone, when it will be implemented and how it will positively impact residents and visitors. The speakers will discuss the initial participants in the newly formed Zero Waste Zone – Downtown Atlanta. In addition, breaking news will be announced regarding a recently signed composting program contract to drastically reduce organic waste going to landfills. A tour will be offered following the press conference to review how the Georgia World Congress Center and Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse are eliminating their waste streams as part of the Zero Waste Zone effort.

WHO: Stan Meiburg, Acting Regional Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 4
Lynnette W. Young, Executive Director of Sustainable Atlanta
Kevin Duvall, Assistant General Manager, Georgia World Congress Center
Laura Turner Seydel, Honorary Chairperson, Zero Waste Zone – Downtown Atlanta

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2009

10 -11 a.m.