Every year, MassRecycle solicits nominations for the Annual MassRecycle Awards that recognize outstanding achievements in and contributions towards recycling, reuse, and waste reduction in Massachusetts. Among the 2022 award winners were Newton mayor Ruthanne Fuller and Johnny’s Luncheonette in Newton Center.
Mayor Fuller demonstrated leadership in advancing extended producer responsibility (EPR) in the Commonwealth. During the 2021–2022 legislative session, Mayor Fuller testified in favor of extended producer responsibility bills for paint, mattresses, packaging and paper products, and the expanded bottle bill. She was the only mayor or city manager to testify on behalf of EPR at the Massachusetts Legislature’s June 2021 hearing. Her leadership has also been instrumental in sustaining Newton’s strong programs in curbside recycling collection, clothing drives, reuse, and drop-off center.
Johnny’s Luncheonette won the business and institution award for their commitment to food waste diversion. The restaurant separates out pre- and post consumer food scraps for composting through their service provider Black Earth. They also boast a long-standing recycling program that is built into their employee training plan. Through information placed around the restaurant, diners learn about how food arrives on their plate and where their leftovers end up, increasing their customers’ knowledge of sustainability, recycling, organic waste diversion, and food systems,.
Learn more about the awards and the complete list of 2022 award recipients and nominees.
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