Reflecting on the Success of the CSMM Symposium
On September 20, 2023, The Center for Sustainable Materials Management (CSMM) hosted its first Symposium at SUNY ESF’s Gateway Center. The Gateway Center proved to be an ideal venue for more than 100 attendees, as its remarkable green design principles resonate with CSMM’s vision towards circularity.
To begin the day-long event, Mark Lichtenstein (CSMM and SUNY ESF) offered a land acknowledgement, highlighting the Symposium’s location on ancestral lands of the Onondaga Nation, the center of the Six Nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, who we honor for their many contributions, including the original philosophy and practice of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Mark then emphasized the importance of CSMM’s collaboration with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and partner universities as it relates to the success of the Center’s work and welcomed to the stage, Dave Vitale of the NYSDEC, for opening remarks. Dave emphasized DEC’s commitment to CSMM’s work as integral to building the circular economy through sustainable materials management and meeting New York State’s aggressive climate goals.
Symposium attendees watch the CSMM film premiere.
With the stage set for the day, the lights were dimmed in the room for the premiere of CSMM’s mini documentary film showcasing the story and progress of the Center so far. The film project was led by CSMM’s lead partner, the Center for Sustainable Community Solutions at Syracuse University (CSCS). Created by Jon Simmons, produced by Lisa Ruggero (CSCS), and co-produced by Lindsay Eberhart (CSCS), the film offered a powerful visual testament to the strides made through our collective efforts towards a circular economy in collaboration with CSMM’s key partners which include Alfred University, CSCS, NYSDEC, and Stony Brook University.
Following the filmmakers interview, a panel session was conducted to hear more from key interviewee subjects from the film including Doug Daley (SUNY ESF), Gabrielle Gaustad (PhD, Alfred University), Dereth Glance (NYS DEC), Bandaru Ramarao (PhD, SUNY ESF), David Tonjes (PhD, SUNY Stony Brook), Kate Walker (CSMM & SUNY ESF) and Melissa Young (CSCS at Syracuse University), shared their insights, research, and perspectives in a panel discussion. Moderated by Mark Lichtenstein, the conversation flowed around the philosophy of sustainable materials management (SMM) and how current research aligns with the statewide SMM goals. It was evident throughout the panel dialogue that the work of sustainable materials management must be done with passion, collaboration, community input, and intention to secure a safe and healthy future for generations to come.
After a networking lunch and visiting exhibitor booths, the group split into breakout sessions offering participants the opportunity to explore CSMM’s work in greater depth. The “Practice” track consisted of facilitated discussions around CSMM’s initiatives in green procurement, product stewardship, recycling markets, and outreach and education, while the “Research” track featured tours of the lab facilities where our teams are working to find solutions for non-recyclable paper.
David Vitale (NYS DEC), Resa Dimino (RRS), John Vana (NYS DEC), Gary Feinland (NYS DEC), and Sally Rowland (NYS DEC) discuss New York’s draft Solid Waste Management Plan: Building the Circular Economy through Sustainable Materials Management.
The event concluded as Kate Walker facilitated a discussion among panelists Resa Dimino (RRS), Gary Feinland (NYS DEC), Sally Rowland (NYS DEC), Bandaru Ramarao (PhD, SUNY ESF), John Vana (NYS DEC) and David Vitale (NYS DEC). The purpose of this session was to explore opportunities on the horizon to implement New York’s draft Solid Waste Management Plan: Building the Circular Economy through Sustainable Materials Management. David Vitale outlined the key legislative priorities NYS DEC support to meet their waste diversion goals: 1) developing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for paper and packaging, and ultimately, framework legislation that allows the addition of other products; 2) expanding and amending the existing Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law to include smaller food scraps generators and eliminate the mileage limit for organics recycling facilities; and 3) requiring a per-ton disposal disincentive surcharge on all waste landfilled or combusted in New York State and all waste generated in New York State being sent for landfilling or combustion out-of-state.
“The symposium provided a collaborative platform for industry leaders to share their expertise and ideas to help drive innovation and influence the trajectory of sustainable materials management," said Kate Walker, Executive Director, CSMM. “This event brought together diverse perspectives and insights and is the first of many more opportunities we will build in partnership to foster deep engagement with stakeholders dedicated to reducing consumption and waste.”
As we reflect on this transformative day, our hearts are filled with gratitude. We extend our deepest appreciation to each participant, each voice, and each contribution that enriched this symposium, making it a resounding success. Together, we are shaping a future where sustainability isn't just a concept but a way of life, and we look forward to continuing this journey with all of you. Together, we will pave the way towards a more sustainable and circular future for generations to come.
Symposium attendees gather for a group photo.