SERDC Plans November Meeting

The Southeast Recycling Development Council (SERDC), based in Cantonment, Fla., has scheduled an open meeting for Wednesday, Nov. 9, to take place at or near the U.S. EPA Region 4 offices in downtown Atlanta.

Representatives from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and the Carolinas have established SERDC, which aims to unite recycling industry leaders, state and federal government agencies and state recycling coalitions to promote sustainable recycling programs.

In a news release, the council refers to itself as “a regional awareness group focused on the collection and recovery of quality recyclable materials for a 10-state region.” The organization will promote education and collection efforts for recyclables like aluminum, steel, plastic, paper, glass, tires, newsprint, corrugated and electronics. Membership development and gathering support are early goals.

“Many states have individual government agencies dedicated to recycling, and many corporate recyclers associate with trade organizations,” Jerry Hawk, SERDC chair, says. “The intent of SERDC is to unite with several public and private groups that currently exist in order to reach a common goal. The term ‘strength in numbers’ is key in accomplishing the goals we have identified.”

According to Arthur Ferguson, SERDC vice chair, groundwork for the regional group began with a small group of Southeastern neighbors. “We met in September 2004 to get the abstract ideas on paper,” he says. “It was apparent the need for a united group existed and the momentum and timing was right for us to get started.”

More information on the Southeast Recycling Development Council is available at www.serdc.org, and those seeking additional information on the Nov. 9 meeting can e-mail Hawk at jerry.hawk@comcast.net.