Benefits

WasteWise Helpline

EPA established a toll-free helpline to communicate with WasteWise partners and others interested in the program. Staffed by WasteWise information specialists, the WasteWise Helpline can answer both general program questions and specific technical questions on solid waste reduction. Helpline staff have access to an extensive library as well as a compendium containing current information about waste reduction resources nationwide.

WasteWise Technical Assistance Team

The WasteWise Technical Assistance Team is available to provide individual assistance to partners. The WasteWise Technical Assistance Team can help partners complete the WasteWise Assessment Form for baseline and annual data, assist them in setting goals, and provide technical assistance in waste reduction issues.

Public Recognition

Photo of WasteWise partners receiving an award

Generating public awareness of the benefits of partners' waste reduction activities is a major function of the WasteWise program. EPA draws attention to the WasteWise program and individual partner accomplishments through a variety of activities, some of which are listed below.

WasteWise Awards Program

Each year, EPA recognizes outstanding achievements of our partners by presenting "Partner of the Year" awards in several categories, including business, government, and educational sectors. To qualify, partners must submit complete annual reporting forms that detail tonnage of waste reduced, associated cost savings, and promotion of the WasteWise program to employees, customers, and suppliers.

EPA also offers "Challenge Partner of the Year" awards to commend exemplary performance in meeting the WasteWise Challenge and "Endorser of the Year" awards to recognize outstanding endorser efforts in promoting WasteWise to other organizations.

EPA established the "Hall of Fame" to recognize exemplary partners that have made significant contributions to the WasteWise program for years. To be considered for the Hall of Fame, partners must report significant waste reduction results, win multiple WasteWise awards, and promote the program to other organizations.

Partner Forums

Partner forums—one-hour teleconferences—are opportunities to learn how to improve your program by interacting with other partners to discuss effective waste reduction strategies and program initiatives. Partner forums present program information and educate members various technical assistance topics.

Regional Forums

In addition to the national forum, EPA sponsors regional forums to recognize the waste reduction efforts of existing partners and to welcome new partners. The meetings are held in cities across the country to help prospective partners learn about program requirements and the benefits of membership. These forums also provide partners an opportunity to network with others in their local area.

The WasteWise Logo Outreach

WasteWise partners are encouraged to highlight their participation in WasteWise by using the WasteWise logo. The logo is often incorporated into employee education tools such as posters, newsletters, and progress reports. EPA's goal is that the WasteWise logo will be recognized as a symbol of environmental leadership.

Waste Reduction Publications

Photo of various WasteWise publications
EPA publications feature partner case studies, explore specialized topics, focus on specific business sectors, and guide members in developing and implementing WasteWise programs. The WasteWise program has produced dozens of publications for distribution to partners and other interested parties. Partners have access to a variety of waste reduction publications, including tip sheets, WasteWise Updates and Bulletins, waste reduction guides, directories, and other WasteWise publications.

Electronic Communications

Through electronic reporting, EPA makes it easy for partners to share and receive recognition for their achievements. Partners submit their annual data using an online form on the WasteWise Member Services Web site. Electronic reporting saves WasteWise partners paper, postage, and time. Approximately 85 percent of WasteWise reporters submit their annual data through the Web.

Most of the WasteWise publications are available, for viewing or downloading, on the WasteWise Web site. In addition, the WasteWise eBulletin—a periodic email newsletter sent to WasteWise partners and endorsers—provides up-to-date program news and waste reduction information.

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