Peterborough Recycling Manager Wins 2008 Sami Izzo Recycler of the Year Award

The Northeast Resource Recovery Association (NRRA) is has announced Scott Bradford as the 2008 Sami Izzo Recycler of the Year. His outstanding efforts and passion for recycling earned him this prestigious award, according to the NRRA.

Under his management, the Recycling Center recycled 77 percent of its waste and produced revenue of $ 242,346 in 2007, Pamela Brenner, town administrator of Peterborough, N.H., stated in her nomination letter.

“This revenue offset more than 70 percent of the operating budget, and as Scott quickly points out, the averted cost of landfilling this tonnage far exceeds our operating costs,” she wrote. “The closed landfill behind the recycling center is a constant reminder of how very expensive a landfill operation can be and how important for the future Scott’s basic philosophy is: reduce, reuse and recycle.”

This award is given annually to an individual who, like Sami Izzo, combines the qualities of commitment, creativity, leadership, enthusiasm and flexibility in developing and sustaining an environmentally and financially sound solid waste management program, according to the (NRRA).

Izzo was a high energy, multi-talented individual who was known for her contributions in the world of waste reduction and recycling, the NRRA adds. She passed away at an early age on February 4, 2001.

Bradford’s enthusiasm and commitment to recycling can be seen throughout the center. “He has spent many hours landscaping and planting flowers at the center, using materials from the center’s operation, from donations, and over 2,000 daffodil bulbs from N.H. the Beautiful,” Brenner says. “It is truly a visual feast around the center during the growing season. … The Peterborough Garden Club has even added the Recycling Center to their summer tour!”

Bradford stated that recycling in Peterborough is “a team effort” and credits the transfer station staff, residents and administration for this award and recycling success.